In June 2015, the city of Paris removed forty-five tons of padlocks from the railings of the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge. As a romantic gesture, couples would etch their intials onto a lock, attach it to the railing, click it shut, and throw the key into the River Seine.
After this ritual was repeated thousands of times, the bridge could no longer bear the weight of so much " love." Eventually the city, fearing for the integrity of the bridge, removed the " love locks."
The locks were meant to symbolize everlasting love, but human love does not always last. The closest of friends may offend each other and never resolve their differences. Family members may argue and refuse to forgive. A husband and wife may drift so far apart that they can't remember why they once decided to marry. Human love can be fickle.
But there is one constant and enduring love-the love of God. " Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever," proclaims Psalm 106:1. The promises of the unfailing and everlasting nature of God's love are found throughout Scripture. And the greatest proof of this love is the death of His Son so that those who put their faith in Him can live eternally. And nothing will ever separate us from His love. ( Romans 8:38-39).
Fellow believers, we are locked into God's love forever.
I'm grateful for Your unending love, Father. I'm locked into Your love by the Holy Spirit who is living in me.
Christ's death and resurrection are the measure of God's love for me.
Please read Zechariah 5-8 and Revelation 19
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Spreading Joy
When Janet went to teach English in a school overseas, she found the atmosphere gloomy and depressing. People did their jobs, but no one seemed happy. They didn't help or encourage one another. But Janet, grateful for all that God had done for her, expressed it in everything she did. She smiled. She was friendly. She went out of her way to help people. She hummed songs of hymns. Little by little, as Janet shared her joy, the atmosphere at the school changed. One by one people began to smile and help each other. When a visiting administrator asked the principal why his school was so different, the principal, who was not a believer, responded, " Jesus brings joy." Janet was filled to overflowing with the joy of the Lord and it spilled over to those around her. The gospel of Luke tells us that God sent an angel to ordinary shepherds to deliver and extrodinary birth announcement. The angel made the surprising proclamation that the newborn baby " will cause great joy for all the people" ( Luke 2:10), which indeed He did. Since then this message has spread through the centuries to us, and now we are Christ's messengers of joy to the world. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we continue the practice of spreading the joy of Jesus as we follow His example and serve others.
How might you spread the joy of Jesus to others today?
Take the Joy of Christmas with you every day.
Please read Micah 1-3 and Revelation 11
How might you spread the joy of Jesus to others today?
Take the Joy of Christmas with you every day.
Please read Micah 1-3 and Revelation 11
Thursday, December 15, 2016
One Short Sleep
Henry Durbanville, a Scotish pastor from another era, tells the story of an elderly woman in his parish who lived in a remote part of Scotland. She longed to see the city of Edinburgh, but she was afraid to take the journey because of the long, dark tunnel through which the train had to pass to get there.
One day, However, circumstances compelled her to go to Edinburg, and as the train sped toward the city, her agitation increased. But before the train reached the tunnel, the woman, worn out with worry, fell fast asleep. When she awoke she had already arrived in the city!
It's possible that some of us will not experience death. If we're aloive when Jesus returns, we will " meet the Lord in the air" ( 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). But many of us will pass into heaven through death and for some that thought causes great anxiety. We worry that the process of dying will be too difficult to bear.
With the assurance of Jesus as our Savior we can rest in the confidence that when we close our eyes on earth and pass through death, we will open our eyes in God's presence. " One short sleep past we wake eternally," John Donne said.
I love the life You've given to me, Lord, yet I wonder what it will be like to see You personally. Help me to trust You with the future. I look forward to that day when I meet You.
To see Jesus will be heaven's greatest joy.
Please read Amos 1-3 and Revelation 6
One day, However, circumstances compelled her to go to Edinburg, and as the train sped toward the city, her agitation increased. But before the train reached the tunnel, the woman, worn out with worry, fell fast asleep. When she awoke she had already arrived in the city!
It's possible that some of us will not experience death. If we're aloive when Jesus returns, we will " meet the Lord in the air" ( 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). But many of us will pass into heaven through death and for some that thought causes great anxiety. We worry that the process of dying will be too difficult to bear.
With the assurance of Jesus as our Savior we can rest in the confidence that when we close our eyes on earth and pass through death, we will open our eyes in God's presence. " One short sleep past we wake eternally," John Donne said.
I love the life You've given to me, Lord, yet I wonder what it will be like to see You personally. Help me to trust You with the future. I look forward to that day when I meet You.
To see Jesus will be heaven's greatest joy.
Please read Amos 1-3 and Revelation 6
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
A Baby Boy
The full-page advertisement in the newspaper caught my eye immediately. Near the top of the light-blue page was the silhouette of a star. In the center of the page were the words: It's a boy.
Luke 2:11, printed across the bottom of the page, read: " Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord."
This simole message-it's a boy proclaimed the indescribable gift of a Savior who came to earth as a baby. Why did He do it?
We needed God to send Jesus. Because of our sin, we were seperated from a holy God. ( Romans 3:23) A perfect Savior and Mediator was needed to bring us back together. Only God could restore the relationship.
God wanted to send Jesus. He loves us so much that He gave His Son ( John 3:16) so our relationship would be restored. Jesus was the only One who could meet His demand for a perfect sacrifice-only He was sinless ( Hebrews 9:11-15). He willingly gave Himself on the cross. God accepted this sacrifice and raised Him from the dead.
Because of our need and His love, God the Father gave us the gift of Jesus the Son. Receive His gift today-it's free.
Jesus died that we might live.
Romans 3:22-26
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jeus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
Luke 2:11, printed across the bottom of the page, read: " Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord."
This simole message-it's a boy proclaimed the indescribable gift of a Savior who came to earth as a baby. Why did He do it?
We needed God to send Jesus. Because of our sin, we were seperated from a holy God. ( Romans 3:23) A perfect Savior and Mediator was needed to bring us back together. Only God could restore the relationship.
God wanted to send Jesus. He loves us so much that He gave His Son ( John 3:16) so our relationship would be restored. Jesus was the only One who could meet His demand for a perfect sacrifice-only He was sinless ( Hebrews 9:11-15). He willingly gave Himself on the cross. God accepted this sacrifice and raised Him from the dead.
Because of our need and His love, God the Father gave us the gift of Jesus the Son. Receive His gift today-it's free.
Jesus died that we might live.
Romans 3:22-26
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jeus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
Living in the Light
It was a dark morning. Low, steel-colored clouds filled the sky, and the atmosphere was so dim that I needed to turn on the lights in order to read a book. I had just settled in when that the wind was pushing the clouds to the east, clearing the sky and revealing the sun.
As I went to the window to get a better look at the drama, a thought came to mind: " The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining" ( 1 John 2:8). The apostle John wrote these words to believers as a message of encouragement. He went on to say, " Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble." By contrast, he euated hating people with roaming around in darkness. Hatred is disorienting; it takes away our sense of moral direction.
Loving people is not always easy. Yet I was reminded as I looked out the window that frustration, forgiveness, and faithfulness are all part of maintaining a deep connection with the love and light of God. When we choose love instead of hate, we are showing our relationship with Him and reflecting His radiance to the world around us. " God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." ( 1 John 1:5)
Dear God, help me to experience Your love more fully so that I can share it with others. I want to live in the light of Your grace and mercy.
Choosing to love people well shows the world what God is like.
Please read Joel 1-3 and Revelation 5
As I went to the window to get a better look at the drama, a thought came to mind: " The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining" ( 1 John 2:8). The apostle John wrote these words to believers as a message of encouragement. He went on to say, " Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble." By contrast, he euated hating people with roaming around in darkness. Hatred is disorienting; it takes away our sense of moral direction.
Loving people is not always easy. Yet I was reminded as I looked out the window that frustration, forgiveness, and faithfulness are all part of maintaining a deep connection with the love and light of God. When we choose love instead of hate, we are showing our relationship with Him and reflecting His radiance to the world around us. " God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." ( 1 John 1:5)
Dear God, help me to experience Your love more fully so that I can share it with others. I want to live in the light of Your grace and mercy.
Choosing to love people well shows the world what God is like.
Please read Joel 1-3 and Revelation 5
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Good News!
World news bombards us from the Internet,television,radio,and mobile devices. The majority seems to describe what's wrong-crime, terrorism,war,and economic problems. Yet there are times when good news invades the darkest hours of sadness and despair-stories of unselfish acts, a medical breakthrough, or steps toward peace in war-scarred places.
The words of two men recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible brought great hope to people weary of conflict.
While describing God's coming judgement on a ruthless and powerful nation, Nahum said, " Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace!" ( Nahum 1:15). That news brought hope to all those oppressed by cruelty.
A similar phrase occurs in the book of Isaiah: " How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation." ( Isaiah 52:7)
Nahum and Isaiah's prophetic words of hope found their ultimate fulfillment at the first Christmas when the angel told the shepherds, " Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord" ( Luke 2:10-11).
The most important headline in our lives every day is the very best news ever spoken-Christ the Savior is born!
The birth of Jesus is the best news the world has ever received!
Please read Hosea 12-14 and Revelation 4
The words of two men recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible brought great hope to people weary of conflict.
While describing God's coming judgement on a ruthless and powerful nation, Nahum said, " Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace!" ( Nahum 1:15). That news brought hope to all those oppressed by cruelty.
A similar phrase occurs in the book of Isaiah: " How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation." ( Isaiah 52:7)
Nahum and Isaiah's prophetic words of hope found their ultimate fulfillment at the first Christmas when the angel told the shepherds, " Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord" ( Luke 2:10-11).
The most important headline in our lives every day is the very best news ever spoken-Christ the Savior is born!
The birth of Jesus is the best news the world has ever received!
Please read Hosea 12-14 and Revelation 4
Monday, December 12, 2016
The Money
Early in my career while doing work that I saw as more of a mission than a job, another company offered me a position that would give a significant increase in pay. Our family could surely have benefited financially from such a move. There was one problem. I hadn't been looking for another job because I loved my current role, which was growing into a calling.
But the money...
I called my father, then in his seventies, and explained the situation. Though his once-sharp mind had been slowed by strokes and strain of years, his answer was crisp and clear: " Don't even think about the money. What would you do?"
In an instant, my mind was made up. The money would have been my only reason for leaving the job I loved! Thanks, Dad.
Jesus devoted a substanial section of His Sermon on the Mount to money and our fondness for it. He taught us to pray not for an accumulation of riches but for " our daily bread" ( Matthew 6:11). He warned against storing up treasures on earth and pointed to the birds and flowers as evidence that God cares deeply about His creation. " Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness," Jesus said, " and all these things will be given to you as well."
Money matters. But money shouldn't rule our decision making process. Tough times and big decisions are opportunities to grow our faith in new ways. Our heavenly Father cares for us.
Never confuse temptation with opportunity.
Please read Hosea 9-11 and Revelation 3
But the money...
I called my father, then in his seventies, and explained the situation. Though his once-sharp mind had been slowed by strokes and strain of years, his answer was crisp and clear: " Don't even think about the money. What would you do?"
In an instant, my mind was made up. The money would have been my only reason for leaving the job I loved! Thanks, Dad.
Jesus devoted a substanial section of His Sermon on the Mount to money and our fondness for it. He taught us to pray not for an accumulation of riches but for " our daily bread" ( Matthew 6:11). He warned against storing up treasures on earth and pointed to the birds and flowers as evidence that God cares deeply about His creation. " Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness," Jesus said, " and all these things will be given to you as well."
Money matters. But money shouldn't rule our decision making process. Tough times and big decisions are opportunities to grow our faith in new ways. Our heavenly Father cares for us.
Never confuse temptation with opportunity.
Please read Hosea 9-11 and Revelation 3
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Christmas in the Village
My earliest childhood memories of Christmas date back to a cluster of small villages nestled among cocoa farms and tall mahogany and palm trees. Wearing new clothes provided by our parents for Christmas, we were a happy group of eight- to - ten year-old kids walking from village to village like the magi who were looking for Baby Jesus. ( Matthew 2:1-2)
Baby Jesus was not there in person, but we found plenty of friendship and goodwill. Later in the day, our mothers sent us with bowls of food to our neighbors. To us in the village, Christmas was a time of benevolence.
But something was missing-the authentic Christmas story. In our merry-making, we missed the reason for the festival season. There was no church in any of the villages and no one told us the Christmas message-that God so loved the world that He gave His Son to be our Savior. ( John 3:16)
It was like attending a birthday party without the birthday person!
Not like the magi. Their foremost pursuit was to seek Jesus: " Where is the newborn king of the Jews?" they asked. ( Matthew 2:2)
And when they found him, " they bowed down and worshipped Him. Then they...gave Him gifts." They first found Him and worshipped Him before presenting their gifts.
Whether we are children or adults, the truth is the same: Christmas goes beyond the festivity and focuses on Christ. The Son of God came that we may have " a rich and satisfying life." ( John 10:10)
Jesus is the reason for the Christmas season.
Matthew 2:1-11
Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of king Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, " Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him."
King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, " Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?"
" In Bethlehem in Judea," they said, " for this is what the prophet wrote:
And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.' "
Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared. Then he told them, " Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!"
After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Baby Jesus was not there in person, but we found plenty of friendship and goodwill. Later in the day, our mothers sent us with bowls of food to our neighbors. To us in the village, Christmas was a time of benevolence.
But something was missing-the authentic Christmas story. In our merry-making, we missed the reason for the festival season. There was no church in any of the villages and no one told us the Christmas message-that God so loved the world that He gave His Son to be our Savior. ( John 3:16)
It was like attending a birthday party without the birthday person!
Not like the magi. Their foremost pursuit was to seek Jesus: " Where is the newborn king of the Jews?" they asked. ( Matthew 2:2)
And when they found him, " they bowed down and worshipped Him. Then they...gave Him gifts." They first found Him and worshipped Him before presenting their gifts.
Whether we are children or adults, the truth is the same: Christmas goes beyond the festivity and focuses on Christ. The Son of God came that we may have " a rich and satisfying life." ( John 10:10)
Jesus is the reason for the Christmas season.
Matthew 2:1-11
Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of king Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, " Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him."
King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, " Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?"
" In Bethlehem in Judea," they said, " for this is what the prophet wrote:
And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.' "
Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared. Then he told them, " Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!"
After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Wounds from a Friend
Charles Lowery complained to his friend about lower back pain. He was seeking a sympathetic ear, but what he got was an honest assessment. His friend told him, " I don't think your back pain is your problem; it's your stomach. Your stomach is so big it's pulling on your back."
In his column for REV! Magazine, Charles shared that he resisted the temptation to be offended. He lost the weight and his back problem went away. Charles recognized that " Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted." ( Proverbs 27:5-6)
The trouble is that so often we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism, for the truth hurts. It bruises our ego, makes us uncomfortable, and calls for change.
True friends don't find pleasure in hurting us. Rather, they love us too much to deceive us. They are people who, with loving courage, point out what we may already know but find hard to truly accept and live by. They tell us not only what we like to hear but also what we need to hear.
Solomon honored such friendship in his proverbs. Jesus went further-He endured wounds of our rejection not only to tell us the truth about ourselves but to show us how much we are loved.
Think of a time when a friend said something honest that caused you pain. Did it benefit you? Is it wise to accept everything our friends tell us?
A friend is one who can tell you the truth in love.
Please read Hosea 1-4 and Revelation 1
In his column for REV! Magazine, Charles shared that he resisted the temptation to be offended. He lost the weight and his back problem went away. Charles recognized that " Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted." ( Proverbs 27:5-6)
The trouble is that so often we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism, for the truth hurts. It bruises our ego, makes us uncomfortable, and calls for change.
True friends don't find pleasure in hurting us. Rather, they love us too much to deceive us. They are people who, with loving courage, point out what we may already know but find hard to truly accept and live by. They tell us not only what we like to hear but also what we need to hear.
Solomon honored such friendship in his proverbs. Jesus went further-He endured wounds of our rejection not only to tell us the truth about ourselves but to show us how much we are loved.
Think of a time when a friend said something honest that caused you pain. Did it benefit you? Is it wise to accept everything our friends tell us?
A friend is one who can tell you the truth in love.
Please read Hosea 1-4 and Revelation 1
Friday, December 9, 2016
Christmas Welcome
In Pampanga Province in Luzon, Philippines, you'll find San Fernando. The historic city hosts the Giant Lantern Festival featuring the quintessential Filipino Christmas tradition-parols. With simple bamboo, colored paper, and candles, gifted artists create breathtaking star0shaped lanterns to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Filipinos around the world have taken this Christmas tradition with them into suburban neighborhoods, main street buisnesses, and high-rise condos. You'll even find parols flickering in the humblest stilt houses in the most remote barangays (villages) in the Philippines. The settings differ dramatically, but the Christmas joy remains the same.
Long ago on a rural hillside, shepherds " staying in the fields" received a startling apperance. " Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased' " ( Luke 2:13-14).
The parol signifies the star of Bethlehem that pointed gift bearing wise men to the Light of the world. The wealthy magi and homeless shepherds were equally welcome. As the prophet had foretold, " For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine" ( Isaiah 8:2). This Light is for everyone.
The light Christ brings will illuminate even our darkest day.
Luke 2:13-20
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven-praising God and saying, to those with whom God is pleased." When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, " Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manager. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.
Filipinos around the world have taken this Christmas tradition with them into suburban neighborhoods, main street buisnesses, and high-rise condos. You'll even find parols flickering in the humblest stilt houses in the most remote barangays (villages) in the Philippines. The settings differ dramatically, but the Christmas joy remains the same.
Long ago on a rural hillside, shepherds " staying in the fields" received a startling apperance. " Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased' " ( Luke 2:13-14).
The parol signifies the star of Bethlehem that pointed gift bearing wise men to the Light of the world. The wealthy magi and homeless shepherds were equally welcome. As the prophet had foretold, " For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine" ( Isaiah 8:2). This Light is for everyone.
The light Christ brings will illuminate even our darkest day.
Luke 2:13-20
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven-praising God and saying, to those with whom God is pleased." When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, " Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manager. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.
The Gift of Encouragement
An old Merle Haggard song, " If We Make It Through December," tells the story of a man laid off from his factory job with no money to buy Christmas gifts for his little girl. Although December is supposed to be a happy time of year, jis life seems dark and cold.
Discouragement is not unique to December, but it can be amplified then. Our expectations may be higher, our sadness deeper. A little encouragement can go a long way.
Joseph, a man from Cyprus, was among the early followers of Jesus. The apostles called him Barnabas, which means " son of encouragement." We meet him in Acts 4:36-37 when he sold a piece of property and donated the money to help other believers in need.
Later, we read that the disciples were afrais od Saul. ( Acts 9:26) " But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles." Saul, later called Paul, had formerly been trying to kill the believers, but Barnabas defended him as a man transformed by Christ.
All around us are people longing to be encouraged. A timely word, a phone call, or a prayer can bolster their faith in Jesus.
The generosity and support of Barnabas demonstrate what it means to be a son or daughter of encouragement. That may be the greatest gift we can give to others this Christmas.
Thank You, Lord, for the gift of encouragement. May we encourage others as they have encouraged us.
Encouragement may be the greatest gift we give this Christmas.
Discouragement is not unique to December, but it can be amplified then. Our expectations may be higher, our sadness deeper. A little encouragement can go a long way.
Joseph, a man from Cyprus, was among the early followers of Jesus. The apostles called him Barnabas, which means " son of encouragement." We meet him in Acts 4:36-37 when he sold a piece of property and donated the money to help other believers in need.
Later, we read that the disciples were afrais od Saul. ( Acts 9:26) " But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles." Saul, later called Paul, had formerly been trying to kill the believers, but Barnabas defended him as a man transformed by Christ.
All around us are people longing to be encouraged. A timely word, a phone call, or a prayer can bolster their faith in Jesus.
The generosity and support of Barnabas demonstrate what it means to be a son or daughter of encouragement. That may be the greatest gift we can give to others this Christmas.
Thank You, Lord, for the gift of encouragement. May we encourage others as they have encouraged us.
Encouragement may be the greatest gift we give this Christmas.
Thursday, December 8, 2016
The Best Gift Ever
At a winter retreat in northern New England, one of the men asked the question, " what was your favorite Christmas gift ever?"
One athletic man seemed eager to answer. " That's easy," he said, glancing at his friend next to him. " A few years back, I finished college thinking I was a sure bet to play professional football. When it didn't happen, I was angry. Bitterness ate at me, and I shared that bitterness with anyone who tried to help me.
" During my second season without football, I went to a Christmas play at this guy's church," he said, gesturing toward a friend. " Not because I wanted Jesus, but just to see my niece in her Christmas pageant. It's hard to describe what happened because it sounds silly, but right in the middle of that play, I felt like I needed to be with those shepherds and angels meeting Jesus. When that crowd finished singing ' Silent Night,' I just sat there weeping.
" I got my best Christmas present ever that very night," he said, again pointing to his friend, " when this guy sent his family home without him so he could tell me how to meet Jesus."
This Christmas, may the joyful simplicity of the story of Jesus's birth stir our hearts to want to know Him.
The best Christmas gift is Jesus bringing peace and forgiveness to us.
1 Chronicles 16:8-13
Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord. Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given, you children of his servant Israel, you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones.
One athletic man seemed eager to answer. " That's easy," he said, glancing at his friend next to him. " A few years back, I finished college thinking I was a sure bet to play professional football. When it didn't happen, I was angry. Bitterness ate at me, and I shared that bitterness with anyone who tried to help me.
" During my second season without football, I went to a Christmas play at this guy's church," he said, gesturing toward a friend. " Not because I wanted Jesus, but just to see my niece in her Christmas pageant. It's hard to describe what happened because it sounds silly, but right in the middle of that play, I felt like I needed to be with those shepherds and angels meeting Jesus. When that crowd finished singing ' Silent Night,' I just sat there weeping.
" I got my best Christmas present ever that very night," he said, again pointing to his friend, " when this guy sent his family home without him so he could tell me how to meet Jesus."
This Christmas, may the joyful simplicity of the story of Jesus's birth stir our hearts to want to know Him.
The best Christmas gift is Jesus bringing peace and forgiveness to us.
1 Chronicles 16:8-13
Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord. Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given, you children of his servant Israel, you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones.
Surround Sound
Walt Disney Studios was the first to introduce a new concept in listening to movies. It was called " stereophonic sound" or surround sound, and it was developed because producers wanted the movie going audience to hear the music in a new way.
But this wasn't the first use of " surround sound." Thousands of years earlier, Nehemiah introduced the idea at the dedication of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. " I had the leaders of Judah go up on top of the wall," he explained. " I also assigned two large choirs to give thanks." ( Nehemiah 12:31) The two choirs began at the southern part of the wall, at the Dung Gate. One went to the left, one went to the right, and they surrounded the city of Jerusalem in praise as they marched toward the temple.
The choirs led the people in rejoicing because " God had given them great joy". In fact, their rejoicing " could be heard far away"
Their praise resulted from God's help as the people overcame the opposition of enemies like Sanballat and rebuilt the wall. What has God given us that causes our joy to overflow into praise? God's clear direction in our lives? The comfort He alone can provide in times of trouble? Or our ultimate gift: salvation?
Perhaps we can't create " surround sound" with our praise, but we can rejoice in the joy God has given us. Then others can hear us praise God and see how He works.
We praise You, O Lord-with words, with song, and with our lives. We offer You our hearts in response to Your great power, loving provision, and constant care.
We can never praise Jesus too much!
But this wasn't the first use of " surround sound." Thousands of years earlier, Nehemiah introduced the idea at the dedication of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. " I had the leaders of Judah go up on top of the wall," he explained. " I also assigned two large choirs to give thanks." ( Nehemiah 12:31) The two choirs began at the southern part of the wall, at the Dung Gate. One went to the left, one went to the right, and they surrounded the city of Jerusalem in praise as they marched toward the temple.
The choirs led the people in rejoicing because " God had given them great joy". In fact, their rejoicing " could be heard far away"
Their praise resulted from God's help as the people overcame the opposition of enemies like Sanballat and rebuilt the wall. What has God given us that causes our joy to overflow into praise? God's clear direction in our lives? The comfort He alone can provide in times of trouble? Or our ultimate gift: salvation?
Perhaps we can't create " surround sound" with our praise, but we can rejoice in the joy God has given us. Then others can hear us praise God and see how He works.
We praise You, O Lord-with words, with song, and with our lives. We offer You our hearts in response to Your great power, loving provision, and constant care.
We can never praise Jesus too much!
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
A Ukrainian Christmas
The people of Ukraine include many wonderful elements in their observance of Christmas. Sometimes wisps of hay are placed on the dinner table as a reminder of the Bethlehem manger. Another portion of their celebration echoes the events of the night when the Savior entered the world. A Christmas prayer is offered, and the the father in the household gives the greeting. " Christ is born!" The family then responds, " Let us glorify Him!"
These words draw our mind to the appearance of the angels in the sky over Bethelhem on the night Christ was born. The angel of the Lord declared, " The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" ( Luke 2:11). The heavenly host responded, " Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
Those twin messages give such depth of meaning to this wonderful time of year. The Savior has come bringing forgiveness and hope-and He is deserving of all the worship we can give Him.
Glory to God in the highest!
The spectacular glory of God's love for us was revealed in the coming of Jesus.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. " Don't be afraid!" he said. " I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven-praising God and saying, " Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
( Luke 2:6-14)
These words draw our mind to the appearance of the angels in the sky over Bethelhem on the night Christ was born. The angel of the Lord declared, " The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" ( Luke 2:11). The heavenly host responded, " Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
Those twin messages give such depth of meaning to this wonderful time of year. The Savior has come bringing forgiveness and hope-and He is deserving of all the worship we can give Him.
Glory to God in the highest!
The spectacular glory of God's love for us was revealed in the coming of Jesus.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. " Don't be afraid!" he said. " I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven-praising God and saying, " Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
( Luke 2:6-14)
Beautiful Unity
Seeing three large predatory animals cuddle and play together is extremely unusual. Yet this is precisely what happens daily in an animal sanctuary in Georgia. In 2001, after months of neglect and abuse, a lion, a Bengal tiger, and a black bear were rescued by Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary. " We could have seperated them," said the assistant director. " But since they came as a kind of family, we decided to keep them together." The trio had found comfort in each other during their time of mistreatment, and, despite their differences, they live peacefully together.
Unity is a beautiful thing. But the unity Paul wrote about in his letter to the believers in Ephesus is unique. Paul encouraged the Ephesians to live up to their calling as members of one body in Christ. ( Ephesians 4:4-5) By the power of the Holy Spirit they would be able to live in unity as they developed humility, gentleness, and patience. These attitudes also allow us to lovingly bear " with one another in love" through the common ground we have in Christ Jesus.
Despite our differences, as members of the family of God we have been reconciled to Him through the death of our Savior and reconciled to each other through the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Heavenly Father, help me to grow in gentleness and patience toward others. Show me how to love others, even when we may have differences.
We keep unity by being united in the Spirit.
Unity is a beautiful thing. But the unity Paul wrote about in his letter to the believers in Ephesus is unique. Paul encouraged the Ephesians to live up to their calling as members of one body in Christ. ( Ephesians 4:4-5) By the power of the Holy Spirit they would be able to live in unity as they developed humility, gentleness, and patience. These attitudes also allow us to lovingly bear " with one another in love" through the common ground we have in Christ Jesus.
Despite our differences, as members of the family of God we have been reconciled to Him through the death of our Savior and reconciled to each other through the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Heavenly Father, help me to grow in gentleness and patience toward others. Show me how to love others, even when we may have differences.
We keep unity by being united in the Spirit.
Monday, December 5, 2016
Immanuel
I was talking with a friend who is newlywed and can't wait to be a parent. He and his wife are planning and praying for a baby. They already have names picked out-and my friend's wife isn't even pregnant!
In 735 BC the prophet Isaiah prophesied to the spiritually struggling nation of Judah: " The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel ( which means ' God is with us') ( Isaiah 7:14). Jesus was named some 730 years before He was born!
I have heard it said that all the truths of Christmas can be stated in just three words: " God with us." We tend to focus our attention at Christmastime on the human birth of Christ. But the greater focus should be on His deity-who He really is- " God with us."
Immanuel means that we're not isolated from a God who sits on some distant throne. He came to be with us. He had human skin and wore human clothes. When Joseph and Mary called their son by name, it was a reminder that God was in the house-literally living under the same roof.
Are you alone? Feeling afraid? Have you felt that God is far off, somberly watching you from a distance? The message of Christmas is that you don't need to be alone anymore, for Jesus has come. Immanuel. God with us.
Immanuel-God with us!
Isaiah 7:10-14
Later, the Lord sent this message to King Ahaz: " Ask the Lord your God for a sign of confirmation, Ahaz. Make as the place of the dead."
But the king refused. " No," he said, " I will not test the Lord like that."
Then Isaiah said, " Listen well, you royal family of David! Isn't it enough to exhaust human patience? Must you exhaust the patience of my God as well? All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel ( which means ' God with us')."
In 735 BC the prophet Isaiah prophesied to the spiritually struggling nation of Judah: " The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel ( which means ' God is with us') ( Isaiah 7:14). Jesus was named some 730 years before He was born!
I have heard it said that all the truths of Christmas can be stated in just three words: " God with us." We tend to focus our attention at Christmastime on the human birth of Christ. But the greater focus should be on His deity-who He really is- " God with us."
Immanuel means that we're not isolated from a God who sits on some distant throne. He came to be with us. He had human skin and wore human clothes. When Joseph and Mary called their son by name, it was a reminder that God was in the house-literally living under the same roof.
Are you alone? Feeling afraid? Have you felt that God is far off, somberly watching you from a distance? The message of Christmas is that you don't need to be alone anymore, for Jesus has come. Immanuel. God with us.
Immanuel-God with us!
Isaiah 7:10-14
Later, the Lord sent this message to King Ahaz: " Ask the Lord your God for a sign of confirmation, Ahaz. Make as the place of the dead."
But the king refused. " No," he said, " I will not test the Lord like that."
Then Isaiah said, " Listen well, you royal family of David! Isn't it enough to exhaust human patience? Must you exhaust the patience of my God as well? All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel ( which means ' God with us')."
Christmas Lights
Each year for several weeks around Christmas, Singapore's tourist belt, Orchard Road, is transformed into a wonderland of lights and colors. This light-up is designed to attract tourists to spend their money at the many stores along the street during this " golden month of business."Shoppers come to enjoy the festivities, listen to choirs sing familiar Christmas carols, and watch performers entertain.
The first Christmas " light-up" ever was not created by electrical cables, glitter, and neon lights but by " the glory of the Lord [ that] shone around" ( Luke 2:9). No tourists saw it, just a few simple shepherds out in their field. And it was followed by an unexpected rendition of " Glory to God in the Highest" by an angelic choir.
THe shepherds went to Bethlehem to see if what the angels said was true. After they had confirmed it, they could not keep to themselves what they had heard and seen. " When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child."
Many of us have heard the Christmas story often. This Christmas, why not share the good news with others that Christ-"the light of the world"- has come.
Lord, help me this Christmas to reflect the light of Your presence and goodness to others.
The gift of God's love in us can bring light to any darkness.
The first Christmas " light-up" ever was not created by electrical cables, glitter, and neon lights but by " the glory of the Lord [ that] shone around" ( Luke 2:9). No tourists saw it, just a few simple shepherds out in their field. And it was followed by an unexpected rendition of " Glory to God in the Highest" by an angelic choir.
THe shepherds went to Bethlehem to see if what the angels said was true. After they had confirmed it, they could not keep to themselves what they had heard and seen. " When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child."
Many of us have heard the Christmas story often. This Christmas, why not share the good news with others that Christ-"the light of the world"- has come.
Lord, help me this Christmas to reflect the light of Your presence and goodness to others.
The gift of God's love in us can bring light to any darkness.
Sunday, December 4, 2016
The Christ of Christmas
Christmas is wet in Signapore. It doesn't snow; it rains. Growing up in a non-Christian family, we didn't celebrate Christmas. But when I was young, my siblings and I, together with a few neighborhood kids, decided to have a Christmas gift exchange. I don't know where we got the idea-maybe from all the TV shows we'd been watchinf. We put our names into a bag, and each of us picked the name of someone to buy a present for. Some of us were happy with the gifts we received, some of us were not; but we were all glad to have recieved presents.
We didn't realize the perfect gift had been given to us 2,000 years ago by God our Creator. The Bible tells us, " For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son." ( John 3:16) When I was a teenager, I heard about this gift and accepted Jesus as my Savior.
I remember celebrating my first Christmas as a believer in Christ. Christmas was special now because I finally understood it's meaning-it's a celebration of God's perfect gift, there; He is a personal God who loves people of all nations and socioeconomic classes. And this personal God expressed His love for me by dying for me.
During this festive season- and always-may we continue to fix our eyes on the Christ of Christmas.
At Bethlehem, God demonstrated that to love is to give.
John 3:16
" For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
There is no judgement against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.
We didn't realize the perfect gift had been given to us 2,000 years ago by God our Creator. The Bible tells us, " For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son." ( John 3:16) When I was a teenager, I heard about this gift and accepted Jesus as my Savior.
I remember celebrating my first Christmas as a believer in Christ. Christmas was special now because I finally understood it's meaning-it's a celebration of God's perfect gift, there; He is a personal God who loves people of all nations and socioeconomic classes. And this personal God expressed His love for me by dying for me.
During this festive season- and always-may we continue to fix our eyes on the Christ of Christmas.
At Bethlehem, God demonstrated that to love is to give.
John 3:16
" For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
There is no judgement against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.
The Treasure in Tomb 7
In 1932, Mexican archaeologist Alfonso Caso discovered Tomb 7 at Monte Alban, Oaxaca. He found more than four hundred artifacts, including hundreds of pieces of pre Hispanic jewelry he called " The Treasure of Monte Alban." It is one of the major finds of Mexican archaeology. One can only imagine Caso's excitement as he held a jade cup in it's purest form.
Centuries earlier, the psalmist wrote of a treasure more valuable than gold or rock crystal. He said, " I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil." ( Psalm 119:162 In Psalm 119, the writer knew how valuable God's instructions and promises are to our lives, so he compared them to the great treasure that comes in hand with the victory of a conqueror.
Caso's name is remembered today because of his discovery in Tomb 7. We can enjoy it if we visit a museum in Oaxaca. However, the psalmist's treasure is at our fingertips. Day by day we can dig into the Scriptures and find diamonds of promises, rubies of hope, and emeralds of wisdom. But by far the greatest thing we find is the person whom the book points to: Jesus Himself. After all, He is the Author of the book.
Let us seek diligently with the confidence that this is the treasure that will enrich us. As the psalmist said, " Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart's delight."
Father, I want to value the Scriptures as a treasure. Help me enjoy Your Word everyday.
God's Word is a valuable possession and a guide to life.
Centuries earlier, the psalmist wrote of a treasure more valuable than gold or rock crystal. He said, " I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil." ( Psalm 119:162 In Psalm 119, the writer knew how valuable God's instructions and promises are to our lives, so he compared them to the great treasure that comes in hand with the victory of a conqueror.
Caso's name is remembered today because of his discovery in Tomb 7. We can enjoy it if we visit a museum in Oaxaca. However, the psalmist's treasure is at our fingertips. Day by day we can dig into the Scriptures and find diamonds of promises, rubies of hope, and emeralds of wisdom. But by far the greatest thing we find is the person whom the book points to: Jesus Himself. After all, He is the Author of the book.
Let us seek diligently with the confidence that this is the treasure that will enrich us. As the psalmist said, " Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart's delight."
Father, I want to value the Scriptures as a treasure. Help me enjoy Your Word everyday.
God's Word is a valuable possession and a guide to life.
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
I'm Rich
Perhaps you've seen the TV ad in which a person answers the door and finds someone who hands over a check for an enormous amount of money. Then the amazed recipient begins shouting, dancing, jumping, and hugging everyone in sight. "I won! I can't believe it! My problems are solved!" Striking it rich evokes a great emotional response.
In Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, we find this remarkable statement: " I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches". What a comparison! Obeying God's instructions for living can be just as exhilarating as receiving a fortune! Verse 16 repeats this refrain as the psalmist expresses grateful gladness for the Lord's commands. " I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word."
But what if we don't feel that way? How can delighting in God's instructions for living be just as exhilarating as receiving a fortune? It all begins with gratitude, which is both an attitude and a choice. We pay attention to what we value, so we begin by expressing our gratitude for those gifts of God that nourish our souls. We ask Him to open our eyes to see the storehouse of wisdom, knowledge, and peace He has given us in His Word.
As our love for Jesus grows each day, we indeed strike it rich!
Dear Father, open our eyes that we may see wonderful things in Your law. Thank You that Your instructions give wise advise.
Rich treasures of God's truth are waiting to be discovered in His Word.
In Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, we find this remarkable statement: " I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches". What a comparison! Obeying God's instructions for living can be just as exhilarating as receiving a fortune! Verse 16 repeats this refrain as the psalmist expresses grateful gladness for the Lord's commands. " I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word."
But what if we don't feel that way? How can delighting in God's instructions for living be just as exhilarating as receiving a fortune? It all begins with gratitude, which is both an attitude and a choice. We pay attention to what we value, so we begin by expressing our gratitude for those gifts of God that nourish our souls. We ask Him to open our eyes to see the storehouse of wisdom, knowledge, and peace He has given us in His Word.
As our love for Jesus grows each day, we indeed strike it rich!
Dear Father, open our eyes that we may see wonderful things in Your law. Thank You that Your instructions give wise advise.
Rich treasures of God's truth are waiting to be discovered in His Word.
Monday, November 21, 2016
What about You?
Emily listened as a group of friends talked about their Thanksgiving traditions with family. " We go around the room and each one tells what he or she is thankful to God for," Gary said.
Another friend mentioned his family's Thanksgiving meal and prayer time. He recalled time with his dad before he had died: " Even though Dad had dementia, his prayer of thanks to the Lord was clear." Randy shared, " My family has a special time of singing together on the holiday. My grandma goes on and on and on!" Emily's sadness and jealous grew as she thought of her own family, and she complained: " Our traditions are to eat turkey, watch television, and never mention anything about God or giving thanks."
Right away Emily felt uneasy with her attitude. You are part of that family. What would you like to do differently to change the day? She asked herself. She decided she wanted to privately tell each person she was thankful to the Lord that they were her sister, niece, brother, or great-niece. When the day arrived, she expressed her thankfulness for them one by one, and they all felt loved. It wasn't easy because it wasn't normal conversation in her family, but she experienced joy as she shared her love for each of them.
"Let everything you say be good and helpful," wrote the apostle Paul, " so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." Our words of thanks can remind others of their value to us and to God.
Dear Lord, show me how I can be an encouragement to others with my words.
The human spirit fills with hope at the sound of an encouraging word.
Another friend mentioned his family's Thanksgiving meal and prayer time. He recalled time with his dad before he had died: " Even though Dad had dementia, his prayer of thanks to the Lord was clear." Randy shared, " My family has a special time of singing together on the holiday. My grandma goes on and on and on!" Emily's sadness and jealous grew as she thought of her own family, and she complained: " Our traditions are to eat turkey, watch television, and never mention anything about God or giving thanks."
Right away Emily felt uneasy with her attitude. You are part of that family. What would you like to do differently to change the day? She asked herself. She decided she wanted to privately tell each person she was thankful to the Lord that they were her sister, niece, brother, or great-niece. When the day arrived, she expressed her thankfulness for them one by one, and they all felt loved. It wasn't easy because it wasn't normal conversation in her family, but she experienced joy as she shared her love for each of them.
"Let everything you say be good and helpful," wrote the apostle Paul, " so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." Our words of thanks can remind others of their value to us and to God.
Dear Lord, show me how I can be an encouragement to others with my words.
The human spirit fills with hope at the sound of an encouraging word.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Sacrificial Faith
It's Sunday afternoon, and I'm sitting in the garden of our home, which is near the church where my husband is the minister. I hear wafts of praise and worship music floating through the air in the Farsi language. Our church in London hosts a vibrant Iranian congregation, and we feel humbled by their passion for Christ as they share some of their stories of persecution and tell of those, such as the senior pastor's brother, who have been martyred for their faith. These faithful believers are following in the footsteps of the first Christian martyr, Steps.
Stephen, one of the first appointed leaders in the early church, garnered attention in Jerusalem when he performed " great wonders and signs" and was brought before the Jewish authorities to defend his actions. He gave an impassioned defense of the faith before describing the hard-heartedness of his accusers. But instead of repenting, they were " furious and gnashed their teeth at him." They dragged him from the city and stoned him to death-even as he prayed for their forgiveness.
The stories of Stephen and modern martyrs remind us that the message of Christ can be met with brutality. If we have never faced persecution for our faith, let's pray for the persecuted church around the world. And may we, if and when tested, find grace to be found faithful to the One who suffered so much more for us.
May we find grace to walk in the Master's steps.
Stephen, one of the first appointed leaders in the early church, garnered attention in Jerusalem when he performed " great wonders and signs" and was brought before the Jewish authorities to defend his actions. He gave an impassioned defense of the faith before describing the hard-heartedness of his accusers. But instead of repenting, they were " furious and gnashed their teeth at him." They dragged him from the city and stoned him to death-even as he prayed for their forgiveness.
The stories of Stephen and modern martyrs remind us that the message of Christ can be met with brutality. If we have never faced persecution for our faith, let's pray for the persecuted church around the world. And may we, if and when tested, find grace to be found faithful to the One who suffered so much more for us.
May we find grace to walk in the Master's steps.
Friday, November 18, 2016
A Facade
Kerri tries hard to get people to admire her. She acts happy most of the time so that others will notice and compliment her on her joyful attitude. Some affirm her because they see her helping people in the community. But in a transparent moment Kerri will admit, " I love the Lord, but in some ways I feel like my life is a façade." Her own sense of insecurity is behind much of her effort of trying to look good to others, and she says she's running out of energy to keep it up.
We can probably all relate in some way because it's not possible to have perfect motives for how we live the Christian life are sometimes mixed with our desire to be valued or praised.
Jesus talked about those who give, pray, and fast in order to be seen. ( Matthew 6:1-18). He taught in the Sermon on the Mount to " give your gifts in private," to " pray to your Father in private," and " when you fast, don't make it obvious".
Serving is most often done publicly, but maybe a little anonymous service could help us learn to rest in God's opinion of us. He who created us in His image values us so much that He gave us His Son and shows us His love each day.
Dear Lord, please forgive me for desiring praise from others more than from You. Please help me as I struggle to keep my motives pure.
Our desire to please God should be our highest motive for obeying God.
We can probably all relate in some way because it's not possible to have perfect motives for how we live the Christian life are sometimes mixed with our desire to be valued or praised.
Jesus talked about those who give, pray, and fast in order to be seen. ( Matthew 6:1-18). He taught in the Sermon on the Mount to " give your gifts in private," to " pray to your Father in private," and " when you fast, don't make it obvious".
Serving is most often done publicly, but maybe a little anonymous service could help us learn to rest in God's opinion of us. He who created us in His image values us so much that He gave us His Son and shows us His love each day.
Dear Lord, please forgive me for desiring praise from others more than from You. Please help me as I struggle to keep my motives pure.
Our desire to please God should be our highest motive for obeying God.
Thursday, November 10, 2016
A New Purpose
Jacob Davis was a tailor with a problem. It was the height of the Gold Rush in the 1800s American West and the Gold miners' work pants kept wearing out. His solution? Davis went to a local dry goods company owned by Levi Strauss, purchased tent cloth, and made work pants from that heavy, sturdy material-and blue jeans were born. Today, denim jeans in a variety of forms ( including Levi's) are among the most popular clothing items in the world, and all because tent material was given a new purpose.
Simon and his friends were fishermen on the Sea of Galilee. Then Jesus arrived and called them to follow Him. He gave them a new purpose. No longer would they fish for fish. As Jesus told them, " Come, follow me,....and I will send you out to fish for people." ( Mark 1:17)
With this new purpose set for their lives, these men were taught and trained by Jesus so that, after His ascension, they could be used by God to capture the hearts of people with the message of the cross and resurrection of Christ. Today, we follow in their steps as we share the good news of Christ's love and salvation.
May our lives both declare and exhibit this love that can change the lives, purposes, and eternal destinies of others.
Help me, Lord, to represent You well so that others might be drawn to Your love and salvation.
With our new life in Christ we have been given a new purpose.
Please read Jeremiah 48-49 and Hebrews 7
Simon and his friends were fishermen on the Sea of Galilee. Then Jesus arrived and called them to follow Him. He gave them a new purpose. No longer would they fish for fish. As Jesus told them, " Come, follow me,....and I will send you out to fish for people." ( Mark 1:17)
With this new purpose set for their lives, these men were taught and trained by Jesus so that, after His ascension, they could be used by God to capture the hearts of people with the message of the cross and resurrection of Christ. Today, we follow in their steps as we share the good news of Christ's love and salvation.
May our lives both declare and exhibit this love that can change the lives, purposes, and eternal destinies of others.
Help me, Lord, to represent You well so that others might be drawn to Your love and salvation.
With our new life in Christ we have been given a new purpose.
Please read Jeremiah 48-49 and Hebrews 7
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Signs and Feelings
A young man known as a habit of asking God for signs. That's not necessarily bad, but his prayers tend to seek confirmation of his feelings. For instance, he'll pray, " God, if you want me to do X, then You please do Y, and I'll know it's okay."
This has created a dilemma. Because of the way he prays and the way he thinks God is answering, he feels that he should get back with his ex-girlfriend. Perhaps unsurprisingly, she feels strongly that God doesn't want that.
The religious leaders of Jesus's day demanded a sign from Him to prove the validity of His claims. They weren't seeking God's guidance; they were challenging His divine authority. Jesus replied, " A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign". The Lord's strong response wasn't a blanket statement to prevent anyone from seeking God's guidance. Rather, Jesus was accusing them of ignoring the clear prophesies in Scripture that indicated He was the Messiah.
God wants us to seek His guidance in prayer. He also gives us the guidance of the Spirit and His word. He provides us with mentors and wise leaders. And He's given us the example of Jesus Himself.
It's wise to ask God for clear direction, but He may not always give it in ways that we expect or want. Perhaps the larger point of prayer is that we learn more about God's nature and develop a relationship with our Father.
The best way to know God's will is to say, " I will" to God.
Please read Jeremiah 46-47 and Hebrews 6
This has created a dilemma. Because of the way he prays and the way he thinks God is answering, he feels that he should get back with his ex-girlfriend. Perhaps unsurprisingly, she feels strongly that God doesn't want that.
The religious leaders of Jesus's day demanded a sign from Him to prove the validity of His claims. They weren't seeking God's guidance; they were challenging His divine authority. Jesus replied, " A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign". The Lord's strong response wasn't a blanket statement to prevent anyone from seeking God's guidance. Rather, Jesus was accusing them of ignoring the clear prophesies in Scripture that indicated He was the Messiah.
God wants us to seek His guidance in prayer. He also gives us the guidance of the Spirit and His word. He provides us with mentors and wise leaders. And He's given us the example of Jesus Himself.
It's wise to ask God for clear direction, but He may not always give it in ways that we expect or want. Perhaps the larger point of prayer is that we learn more about God's nature and develop a relationship with our Father.
The best way to know God's will is to say, " I will" to God.
Please read Jeremiah 46-47 and Hebrews 6
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
We Had No Idea
Volunteers from a local church spent a frigid evening distributing food to people in a low income apartment complex. One woman who received food was overjoyed. She showed them her bare cupboard and told them they were an answer to her prayers.
As the volunteers returned to the church, one woman began to cry. " When I was a little girl," she said, " that lady was my Windshield school teacher. She's in church every Subway. We had no idea she was almost starving!"
Clearly, these were caring people who were seeking ways to carry the burdens of others, as Paul suggests in Galatians 6:2. Yet somehow they hadn't noticed the needs of this woman-someone they saw every Sunday-and she hadn't shared her needs. This can be a gentle reminder for all of us to be more aware of those around us and, as Paul said, to " do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers".
People who worship together have the privilege of assisting one another so no one in the body of Christ goes without help. As we get to know each other and care for each other, perhaps we won't ever say, " We had no idea."
Dear Lord, help me to notice the needs of those around me and to do what I can to meet those needs in Your name.
Nothing costs as much as caring- except not caring.
Please read Jeremiah 43-45 and Hebrews 5
As the volunteers returned to the church, one woman began to cry. " When I was a little girl," she said, " that lady was my Windshield school teacher. She's in church every Subway. We had no idea she was almost starving!"
Clearly, these were caring people who were seeking ways to carry the burdens of others, as Paul suggests in Galatians 6:2. Yet somehow they hadn't noticed the needs of this woman-someone they saw every Sunday-and she hadn't shared her needs. This can be a gentle reminder for all of us to be more aware of those around us and, as Paul said, to " do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers".
People who worship together have the privilege of assisting one another so no one in the body of Christ goes without help. As we get to know each other and care for each other, perhaps we won't ever say, " We had no idea."
Dear Lord, help me to notice the needs of those around me and to do what I can to meet those needs in Your name.
Nothing costs as much as caring- except not caring.
Please read Jeremiah 43-45 and Hebrews 5
Sunday, November 6, 2016
A Difficult Hill
High in a fold of Jug handle Peak in the mountains north of our home in Idaho lies a glacial lake. The route to the lake goes up a steep, exposed ridge through boulders and loose stones. It's a strenuous ascent.
At the beginning of the climb, however, there is a Brook a spring that seeps out of soft, mossy earth and flows through a lush meadow. It's a quiet place to drink deeply and prepare for the hard climb ahead.
In John Bunyan's classic allegory of the Christian life, The Pilgrim's Progress, Christian arrives at the foot of a steep ascent called the Hill Difficulty, " at the bottom of which was a spring.... Christian now went to the spring and drank to refresh himself, and then began to go up the hill."
Perhaps the difficult mountain you face is a rebellious child or a serious medical diagnosis. The challenge seems more than you can endure.
Before you face your next major task, visit the spring of refreshment that is God Himself. Come to Him with all your weakness, weariness, helplessness, fear and doubt. Then drink deeply of His power, strength, and wisdom. God knows all your circumstances and will supply a store of comfort, of spiritual strengthening and consolation. He will lift up your head and give you strength to go on.
Please read Jeremiah 40-42 and Hebrews 4
At the beginning of the climb, however, there is a Brook a spring that seeps out of soft, mossy earth and flows through a lush meadow. It's a quiet place to drink deeply and prepare for the hard climb ahead.
In John Bunyan's classic allegory of the Christian life, The Pilgrim's Progress, Christian arrives at the foot of a steep ascent called the Hill Difficulty, " at the bottom of which was a spring.... Christian now went to the spring and drank to refresh himself, and then began to go up the hill."
Perhaps the difficult mountain you face is a rebellious child or a serious medical diagnosis. The challenge seems more than you can endure.
Before you face your next major task, visit the spring of refreshment that is God Himself. Come to Him with all your weakness, weariness, helplessness, fear and doubt. Then drink deeply of His power, strength, and wisdom. God knows all your circumstances and will supply a store of comfort, of spiritual strengthening and consolation. He will lift up your head and give you strength to go on.
Please read Jeremiah 40-42 and Hebrews 4
A Safe Place
A young Japanese man had a problem-he was afraid of leaving his house. To avoid other people, he slept through the day and stayed up all night watching t.v. He was a hikikomori or a modern day hermit. The problem began when he stopped going to school because of poor grades. The longer he remained apart from society, the more he felt like a social misfit. Eventually he broke off all communication with his friends and family. He was helped on his journey to recovery, though, by visiting a youth club in Tokyo known as an ibasho- a Safe place where broken people could start reintroducing themselves to society.
What if we thought of the church as an ibasho- and far more? Without a doubt, we are a community of broken people. When the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth he described their former way of life as anti-social, harmful, and dangerous to themselves and others. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) But in Jesus they were being transformed and made whole. And Paul encouraged these rescued people to love one another, to be patient and kind, not to be jealous or proud or rude.
The church is to be an ibasho- where all of us, no matter what struggles or brokenness we face, can know and experience God's love. May the hurting world experience the compassion of Christ from all who follow Him.
Only God can transform a sin-stained soul into a masterpiece of grace.
Please read Jeremiah 37-39 and Hebrews 3
What if we thought of the church as an ibasho- and far more? Without a doubt, we are a community of broken people. When the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth he described their former way of life as anti-social, harmful, and dangerous to themselves and others. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) But in Jesus they were being transformed and made whole. And Paul encouraged these rescued people to love one another, to be patient and kind, not to be jealous or proud or rude.
The church is to be an ibasho- where all of us, no matter what struggles or brokenness we face, can know and experience God's love. May the hurting world experience the compassion of Christ from all who follow Him.
Only God can transform a sin-stained soul into a masterpiece of grace.
Please read Jeremiah 37-39 and Hebrews 3
Friday, November 4, 2016
Strong Conqueror
Most of us hope for good government. We vote, we serve, and we speak out for causes we believe are fair and just. But political solutions remain powerless to change the condition of our hearts.
Many of Jesus's followers anticipated a Messiah who would bring a vigorous political response to Rome and it's heavy-handed oppression. Peter was no exception. When Roman soldiers came to arrest Christ, Peter drew his sword and took a swing at the head of the high priest's servant, lopping off his ear in the process.
Jesus halted Peter's one-man war, saying, " Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" Hours later, Jesus would tell Pilate, " My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders"
The Lord's restraint in that moment, as His life hung in the balance, astonishes us when we ponder the scope of His mission. On a future day, He will lead the armies of heaven into battle. John wrote, " With justice he judges and wages war"
But as He endured the ordeal of His arrest, trial, and crucifixion, Jesus kept His Father's will in view. By embracing death on the cross, He set in motion a chain of events that truly transforms hearts. And in the process, our Strong Conqueror defeated death itself.
Father, how prone I am to reacting quickly rather than wisely. Show me Your will for my life so that I will purposefully choose the path You have for me.
Real restraint is not weakness, for it arises out of genuine strength.
Please read Jeremiah 32-33 and Hebrews 1
Many of Jesus's followers anticipated a Messiah who would bring a vigorous political response to Rome and it's heavy-handed oppression. Peter was no exception. When Roman soldiers came to arrest Christ, Peter drew his sword and took a swing at the head of the high priest's servant, lopping off his ear in the process.
Jesus halted Peter's one-man war, saying, " Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" Hours later, Jesus would tell Pilate, " My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders"
The Lord's restraint in that moment, as His life hung in the balance, astonishes us when we ponder the scope of His mission. On a future day, He will lead the armies of heaven into battle. John wrote, " With justice he judges and wages war"
But as He endured the ordeal of His arrest, trial, and crucifixion, Jesus kept His Father's will in view. By embracing death on the cross, He set in motion a chain of events that truly transforms hearts. And in the process, our Strong Conqueror defeated death itself.
Father, how prone I am to reacting quickly rather than wisely. Show me Your will for my life so that I will purposefully choose the path You have for me.
Real restraint is not weakness, for it arises out of genuine strength.
Please read Jeremiah 32-33 and Hebrews 1
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Leading with Love
In his book Spiritual Leadership, J. Oswald Sanders explores the qualities and the importance of tact and diplomacy. " Combining these two words," Sanders says, " the idea emerges of skill in reconciling opposing viewpoints without giving offense and without compromising principle."
During Paul's imprisonment in Rome, he became the spiritual mentor and close friend of a runaway slave named Onesimus, whose owner was Philemon. When Paul wrote to Philemon a leader of the church in Colossae, asking him to receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ, he exemplified tact and diplomacy. " Although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love... [Onesimus] is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord." ( Philemon 8-9,16)
Paul, a respected leader of the early church, often gave clear commands to the followers of Jesus. In this case, though, he appealed to Philemon on the basis of equality, friendship, and love. " I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary."
In all our relationships, may we seek to preserve harmony and principle in the spirit of love.
Father in heaven, in all our relationships give us grace and wisdom to be wise leaders, parents, and friends.
Leaders who serve will serve as good leaders.
Please read Jeremiah 30-31 and Philemon.
During Paul's imprisonment in Rome, he became the spiritual mentor and close friend of a runaway slave named Onesimus, whose owner was Philemon. When Paul wrote to Philemon a leader of the church in Colossae, asking him to receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ, he exemplified tact and diplomacy. " Although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love... [Onesimus] is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord." ( Philemon 8-9,16)
Paul, a respected leader of the early church, often gave clear commands to the followers of Jesus. In this case, though, he appealed to Philemon on the basis of equality, friendship, and love. " I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary."
In all our relationships, may we seek to preserve harmony and principle in the spirit of love.
Father in heaven, in all our relationships give us grace and wisdom to be wise leaders, parents, and friends.
Leaders who serve will serve as good leaders.
Please read Jeremiah 30-31 and Philemon.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Watchful and Alert
My desk sits close to a window that opens into our neighborhood. From that vantage point I'm privileged to watch the birds perch on the trees nearby. Some come to the window to eat insects trapped in the screen.
The birds check their immediate surroundings for any danger, listening attentively as they look about them. Only when they are satisfied that there is no danger do they settle down to feed. Even then, they pause every few seconds to scan the area.
The vigilance these birds demonstrate reminds me that the Bible teaches us to practice vigilance as Christians. Our world is full of temptations, and we need to remain constantly alert and not forget about the dangers. Like Adam and Eve, we easily get entangled in attractions that make the things of this world seem " good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom." ( Genesis 3:6)
" Be on your guard," Paul admonished, " stand firm in the faith." ( 1 Corinthians 16:13) And Peter cautioned, " Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." ( 1 Peter 5:8)
As we work for our own daily bread, are we alert to what could start consuming us? Are we watching for any hint of self-confidence or willfulness that could leave us wishing we had trusted our God?
Lord, keep us from the secret sins and selfish reactions we're so naturally, inclined toward. By Your grace, turn our temptations into moments of growth in Christlikeness.
The best way to escape temptation is to run to God.
Please read Jeremiah 27-29 and Titus 3
The birds check their immediate surroundings for any danger, listening attentively as they look about them. Only when they are satisfied that there is no danger do they settle down to feed. Even then, they pause every few seconds to scan the area.
The vigilance these birds demonstrate reminds me that the Bible teaches us to practice vigilance as Christians. Our world is full of temptations, and we need to remain constantly alert and not forget about the dangers. Like Adam and Eve, we easily get entangled in attractions that make the things of this world seem " good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom." ( Genesis 3:6)
" Be on your guard," Paul admonished, " stand firm in the faith." ( 1 Corinthians 16:13) And Peter cautioned, " Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." ( 1 Peter 5:8)
As we work for our own daily bread, are we alert to what could start consuming us? Are we watching for any hint of self-confidence or willfulness that could leave us wishing we had trusted our God?
Lord, keep us from the secret sins and selfish reactions we're so naturally, inclined toward. By Your grace, turn our temptations into moments of growth in Christlikeness.
The best way to escape temptation is to run to God.
Please read Jeremiah 27-29 and Titus 3
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Run to Me
During a walk at a local park, my children and I encountered a couple of unleashed dogs. Their owner didn't seem to notice that one of them had begun to intimidate my son. My son tried to shoo the dog away, but the animal only became more intent on bothering him.
Eventually, my son panicked. He bolted several yards into the distance, but the dog pursued him. The chase continued until I yelled, " Run to me!" My son doubled back, calmed down, and the dog finally decided to make mischief somewhere else.
There are moments in our lives when God calls to us and says, " Run to Me!" Something troubling is on our heels. The faster and farther we go, the more closely it pursues us. We can't shake it. We're too afraid to turn and confront the trouble on our own. But the reality is that we aren't on our own. God is there, ready to help and comfort us. All we have to do is turn away from whatever scares us, and move in His direction. His Word says, " The name of the Lord is fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe"
Dear Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace. I need the kind of peace that only You can give. Help me to turn to You when I am troubled.
God is our refuge in times of trouble.
Please read Jeremiah 24-26 and Titus 2
Eventually, my son panicked. He bolted several yards into the distance, but the dog pursued him. The chase continued until I yelled, " Run to me!" My son doubled back, calmed down, and the dog finally decided to make mischief somewhere else.
There are moments in our lives when God calls to us and says, " Run to Me!" Something troubling is on our heels. The faster and farther we go, the more closely it pursues us. We can't shake it. We're too afraid to turn and confront the trouble on our own. But the reality is that we aren't on our own. God is there, ready to help and comfort us. All we have to do is turn away from whatever scares us, and move in His direction. His Word says, " The name of the Lord is fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe"
Dear Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace. I need the kind of peace that only You can give. Help me to turn to You when I am troubled.
God is our refuge in times of trouble.
Please read Jeremiah 24-26 and Titus 2
Monday, October 31, 2016
It Never Runs Out
When I asked a friend who is about to retire what she feared about her next stage of life, she said, " I want to make sure I don't run out of money." The next day I was talking to my financial counselor he gave me advice on how I might avoid running out of money. Indeed, we all want the security of knowing we'll have the resources we need for the rest of our lives.
No financial plan can provide an absolute guarantee of earthly security. But there is a plan that extends far beyond this life and indefinitely into the future. The apostle Peter describes it like this: " In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade."
When we place our faith in Jesus to forgive our sins we receive an eternal inheritance through God's power. Because of this inheritance, we'll live forever and never run short of what we need.
Planning for retirement is a good idea if we're able to do so. But more important is having an eternal inheritance that never runs out-and that is available only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Dear God, I want that assurance of an eternal inheritance the certainty of everlasting life with You. I put my faith in Jesus to forgive my sins and make me His child. Thank You for saving me and reserving a place for me in Your eternal kingdom.
The promise of heaven is our eternal hope.
Please read Jeremiah 22-23 and Titus 1
No financial plan can provide an absolute guarantee of earthly security. But there is a plan that extends far beyond this life and indefinitely into the future. The apostle Peter describes it like this: " In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade."
When we place our faith in Jesus to forgive our sins we receive an eternal inheritance through God's power. Because of this inheritance, we'll live forever and never run short of what we need.
Planning for retirement is a good idea if we're able to do so. But more important is having an eternal inheritance that never runs out-and that is available only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Dear God, I want that assurance of an eternal inheritance the certainty of everlasting life with You. I put my faith in Jesus to forgive my sins and make me His child. Thank You for saving me and reserving a place for me in Your eternal kingdom.
The promise of heaven is our eternal hope.
Please read Jeremiah 22-23 and Titus 1
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Stage by Stage
Numbers 33 is a chapter in the Bible we might pass by without reflection. It appears to be nothing more than a long list of places tracing Israel's pilgrimage from Rameses in Egypt to their arrival in the plains of Moab. But it must be important because it's the only section in Numbers that follows with the words: " At the Lord's command Moses recorded..."
Why keep a record of this? Could it be that this list provides a framework upon which the Israelites emerging from the wilderness could retrace that forty-year journey in their thoughts and recall God's faithfulness at each location?
I envision an Israelite father, sitting near a campfire, reminiscing with his son: " I will never forget Rephidim! I was dying of thirst, nothing but sand and sage for hundreds of miles. Then God directed Moses to take his staff and strike a rock-actually a hard slab of flint. I thought, What a futile gesture; he'll never get anything out of that stone. But to my amazement water gushed out of that rock! A generous flow that satisfied the thirst of the thousands of Israelites. I'll never forget that day!".
So why not give it a try? Reflect on your life-stage by stage-and remember all the ways God has shown you His faithful, covenant love.
Count your many blessings, name them one by one.
God's faithfulness extends to all generations.
Please read Jeremiah 12-14 and 2 Timothy 1
Why keep a record of this? Could it be that this list provides a framework upon which the Israelites emerging from the wilderness could retrace that forty-year journey in their thoughts and recall God's faithfulness at each location?
I envision an Israelite father, sitting near a campfire, reminiscing with his son: " I will never forget Rephidim! I was dying of thirst, nothing but sand and sage for hundreds of miles. Then God directed Moses to take his staff and strike a rock-actually a hard slab of flint. I thought, What a futile gesture; he'll never get anything out of that stone. But to my amazement water gushed out of that rock! A generous flow that satisfied the thirst of the thousands of Israelites. I'll never forget that day!".
So why not give it a try? Reflect on your life-stage by stage-and remember all the ways God has shown you His faithful, covenant love.
Count your many blessings, name them one by one.
God's faithfulness extends to all generations.
Please read Jeremiah 12-14 and 2 Timothy 1
Learning to Count
My son is learning to count from one to ten. He counts everything from toys to trees. He counts things I tend to overlook, like the wildflowers on his way to school or the toes on my feet.
My son is also teaching me to count again. Often I become so immersed in things I haven't finished or things I don't have that I fail to see all the good things around me. I have forgotten to count the new friends made this year and the answered prayers received, the tears of joy shed and the times of laughter with good friends.
My ten fingers are not enough to count all that God gives me day by day. " Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare." How can we even begin to count all the blessings of salvation, reconciliation, and eternal life?
Let us join David as he praises God for all His precious thoughts about us and all He has done for us, when he says, " How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand."
Let's learn to count again!
Lord, Your works are so many and good I can't count them all. But I thank You for each one.
Let's thank God for His countless blessings.
Please read Jeremiah 15-17 and 2 Timothy 2
My son is also teaching me to count again. Often I become so immersed in things I haven't finished or things I don't have that I fail to see all the good things around me. I have forgotten to count the new friends made this year and the answered prayers received, the tears of joy shed and the times of laughter with good friends.
My ten fingers are not enough to count all that God gives me day by day. " Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare." How can we even begin to count all the blessings of salvation, reconciliation, and eternal life?
Let us join David as he praises God for all His precious thoughts about us and all He has done for us, when he says, " How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand."
Let's learn to count again!
Lord, Your works are so many and good I can't count them all. But I thank You for each one.
Let's thank God for His countless blessings.
Please read Jeremiah 15-17 and 2 Timothy 2
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
The Gift
A number of years ago I wrote an essay about my collection of canes, staffs, and walking sticks and mused that I might someday graduate to a walker. Well, the day has come. A combination of back issues and peripheral neuropathy has left me pushing a three-wheel walker. I can't hike; I can't fish; I can't do many of the the things that used to bring me great joy.
I'm trying to learn, however, that my limitation, whatever it may be, is a gift from God, and it is with this gift that I am to serve Him. This gift and not another. This is true of all of us, whether our limits are emotional, physical, or intellectual. Paul was so bold as to say that he boasted in his weakness for it was in weakness that God's power was revealed in him.
Seeing our so-called liabilities this way enables us to go about our business with confidence and courage. Rather than complain, feel sorry for ourselves, or opt out, we make ourselves available to God for His intended purposes.
I have no idea what He has in mind for you and me, but we shouldn't worry about that. Our task today is just to accept things as they are and to be content, knowing that in the love, wisdom, and providence of God this moment is as good as it can possibly be.
Dear Lord, I know that You are good and You love me. I trust You to give me everything I need for today.
Contentment enables you to grow where God has planted you.
Please read Jeremiah 6-8 and 1 Timothy 5
I'm trying to learn, however, that my limitation, whatever it may be, is a gift from God, and it is with this gift that I am to serve Him. This gift and not another. This is true of all of us, whether our limits are emotional, physical, or intellectual. Paul was so bold as to say that he boasted in his weakness for it was in weakness that God's power was revealed in him.
Seeing our so-called liabilities this way enables us to go about our business with confidence and courage. Rather than complain, feel sorry for ourselves, or opt out, we make ourselves available to God for His intended purposes.
I have no idea what He has in mind for you and me, but we shouldn't worry about that. Our task today is just to accept things as they are and to be content, knowing that in the love, wisdom, and providence of God this moment is as good as it can possibly be.
Dear Lord, I know that You are good and You love me. I trust You to give me everything I need for today.
Contentment enables you to grow where God has planted you.
Please read Jeremiah 6-8 and 1 Timothy 5
Monday, October 24, 2016
Choosing to Change
When my son acquired a small robot, he had fun programming it to perform simple tasks. He could make it move forward,stop, and then retrace it's steps. He could even get it to beep and replay recorded noticed. The robot did exactly what my son told it to do. It never laughed spontaneously or veered off in an unplanned direction. It had no choice.
When God created humans, He didn't make robots. God made us in His image, and this means we can think, we're able to choose between right and wrong. Even if we have made a habit of disobeying God, we can decide to redirect our lives.
When the ancient Israelites found themselves in trouble with God, He spoke to them through the prophet Ezekiel. Ezekiel said, " Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall... Get a new heart and a new spirit."
This kind of change can begin with just one choice, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It might mean saying no at a critical moment. No more gossip. No more greed. No more jealousy. No more anger. If you know Jesus, you're not a slave to sin. You can choose to change, and with God's help, this personal revolution can start today.
Dear God, all things are possible with You. Through the power of Jesus's resurrection help me to take the first step toward a life of greater devotion to You.
For a new start, ask God for a new heart.
Please read Jeremiah 3-5 and 1 Timothy 4
When God created humans, He didn't make robots. God made us in His image, and this means we can think, we're able to choose between right and wrong. Even if we have made a habit of disobeying God, we can decide to redirect our lives.
When the ancient Israelites found themselves in trouble with God, He spoke to them through the prophet Ezekiel. Ezekiel said, " Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall... Get a new heart and a new spirit."
This kind of change can begin with just one choice, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It might mean saying no at a critical moment. No more gossip. No more greed. No more jealousy. No more anger. If you know Jesus, you're not a slave to sin. You can choose to change, and with God's help, this personal revolution can start today.
Dear God, all things are possible with You. Through the power of Jesus's resurrection help me to take the first step toward a life of greater devotion to You.
For a new start, ask God for a new heart.
Please read Jeremiah 3-5 and 1 Timothy 4
Friday, October 21, 2016
Unfailing Love
On a recent airline flight the landing was a little rough, jostling us left and right down the runway. Some of the passengers were visibly nervous, but the tension broke when two little girls sitting behind me cheered, " Yeah! Let's do that again!"
Children are open to new adventures and see life with humble, wide eyed wonder. Perhaps this is part of what Jesus had in mind when He said that we have to " receive the kingdom of God like a little child."
Life has its challenges and heartaches. Few knew this better than Jeremiah, who is also called " the weeping prophet." But in the middle of Jeremiah's troubles, God encouraged him with an amazing truth: " the faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."
God's fresh mercies can break into our lives at any moment. They are always there, and we see them when we live with childlike expectation-watching and waiting for what only He can do. Jeremiah knew that God's goodness is not defined only by our immediate circumstances and that His faithfulness is greater than life's rough places. Look for God's fresh mercies today.
Lord, please help me to have the faith of a child so that I can live with expectation, always looking forward to what You will do next.
God is greater than anything that happens to us.
Please read Isaiah 62-64 and 1 Timothy 1
Children are open to new adventures and see life with humble, wide eyed wonder. Perhaps this is part of what Jesus had in mind when He said that we have to " receive the kingdom of God like a little child."
Life has its challenges and heartaches. Few knew this better than Jeremiah, who is also called " the weeping prophet." But in the middle of Jeremiah's troubles, God encouraged him with an amazing truth: " the faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."
God's fresh mercies can break into our lives at any moment. They are always there, and we see them when we live with childlike expectation-watching and waiting for what only He can do. Jeremiah knew that God's goodness is not defined only by our immediate circumstances and that His faithfulness is greater than life's rough places. Look for God's fresh mercies today.
Lord, please help me to have the faith of a child so that I can live with expectation, always looking forward to what You will do next.
God is greater than anything that happens to us.
Please read Isaiah 62-64 and 1 Timothy 1
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Your Journey
I grew up in the rebellious 1960s and turned my back on religion. I had attended church all my life but didn't come to faith until my early twenties after a terrible accident. Since that time, I have spent my adult years telling others of Jesus's love for us. It has been a journey.
Certainly " a journey" describes life in this broken world. On the way we encounter mountains and valleys, rivers roads-highs and lows, joys and sorrows, conflict and loss, heartache and solitude. We can't see the road ahead, so we must take it as it comes, not as we wish it would be.
The follower of Christ, however, never faces this journey alone. Scriptures remind us of the constant presence of God. There is nowhere we can go that He is not there. He will never leave us or forsake us. Jesus, after promising to send the Holy Spirit, told His disciples, " I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you."
The challenges and opportunities we face on our journey can be met confidently, for God has promised us His never failing presence.
Loving Lord, thank You that You not only know the path I take, You walk it with me. Help me to rely on Your presence, help, and wisdom every day of my journey through life.
Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading.
Please read Isaiah 59-60 and 2 Thessalonians 3
Certainly " a journey" describes life in this broken world. On the way we encounter mountains and valleys, rivers roads-highs and lows, joys and sorrows, conflict and loss, heartache and solitude. We can't see the road ahead, so we must take it as it comes, not as we wish it would be.
The follower of Christ, however, never faces this journey alone. Scriptures remind us of the constant presence of God. There is nowhere we can go that He is not there. He will never leave us or forsake us. Jesus, after promising to send the Holy Spirit, told His disciples, " I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you."
The challenges and opportunities we face on our journey can be met confidently, for God has promised us His never failing presence.
Loving Lord, thank You that You not only know the path I take, You walk it with me. Help me to rely on Your presence, help, and wisdom every day of my journey through life.
Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading.
Please read Isaiah 59-60 and 2 Thessalonians 3
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Desert Solitaire
Desert Solitaire is Edward Abbey's personal history of his summers as a park ranger in what is now called Arches National Park in Utah. The book is worth reading if only for Abbey's bright language and vivid descriptions of the US Southwest.
But Abbey, for all his artistry, was an atheist who could see nothing beyond the surface of the beauty he enjoyed. How sad! He lived his entire life in praise of beauty and missed the point of it all.
Most ancient peoples had theories of origins enshrouded in legend, myth, and song. But Israel's story of creation was unique: It told of a God who created beauty for our enjoyment and childlike delight. God thought up the cosmos, spoke it into being and pronounced it " beautiful." (The Hebrew word for good also signifies beauty.) Then, having created paradise, God in love spoke us into being, placed us in Eden, and told us, " Enjoy!"
Some see and enjoy the beauty of the Creator's good gifts all around them, but don't " worship him as God or even give him thanks." They " think up foolish ideas of what God (is) like. As a result, their minds become dark and confused."
Others see beauty, say " Thank You, God," and step into His light.
Loving Father, we praise You because You are good. Thank You for infusing Your creation with beauty and purpose and for placing us here to enjoy it as we discover You. Your love endures forever!
All of creation reflects the beauty of God.
Please read Isaiah 56-58 and 2 Thessalonians 2
But Abbey, for all his artistry, was an atheist who could see nothing beyond the surface of the beauty he enjoyed. How sad! He lived his entire life in praise of beauty and missed the point of it all.
Most ancient peoples had theories of origins enshrouded in legend, myth, and song. But Israel's story of creation was unique: It told of a God who created beauty for our enjoyment and childlike delight. God thought up the cosmos, spoke it into being and pronounced it " beautiful." (The Hebrew word for good also signifies beauty.) Then, having created paradise, God in love spoke us into being, placed us in Eden, and told us, " Enjoy!"
Some see and enjoy the beauty of the Creator's good gifts all around them, but don't " worship him as God or even give him thanks." They " think up foolish ideas of what God (is) like. As a result, their minds become dark and confused."
Others see beauty, say " Thank You, God," and step into His light.
Loving Father, we praise You because You are good. Thank You for infusing Your creation with beauty and purpose and for placing us here to enjoy it as we discover You. Your love endures forever!
All of creation reflects the beauty of God.
Please read Isaiah 56-58 and 2 Thessalonians 2
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
From the Heart
In many cultures, loud weeping, wailing, and tearing of clothing are accepted ways of lamenting personal sorrow or a great national calamity. For the people of Old Testament Israel, similar outward actions expressed deep mourning and repentance for turning away from the Lord.
An outward demonstration of repentance can be a powerful process when it comes from our heart. But without a sincere inward response to God, we may simply be going through the motions, even in our communities of faith.
After a plague of locusts devastated the land of Judah, God, through the prophet Joel, called the people to sincere repentance to avoid His further judgment. " ' Even now,' declares the Lord, ' return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning' "
Then Joel called for a response from deep inside: " Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity"
True repentance comes from the heart.
The Lord longs for us to confess our sins to Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Whatever you need to tell the Lord today, just say it-from the heart.
Lord, please give me a heart of repentance to see myself as You do. Give me the grace to respond to Your merciful call for change.
God wants to hear your heart.
Please read Isaiah 53-55 and 2 Thessalonians 1
An outward demonstration of repentance can be a powerful process when it comes from our heart. But without a sincere inward response to God, we may simply be going through the motions, even in our communities of faith.
After a plague of locusts devastated the land of Judah, God, through the prophet Joel, called the people to sincere repentance to avoid His further judgment. " ' Even now,' declares the Lord, ' return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning' "
Then Joel called for a response from deep inside: " Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity"
True repentance comes from the heart.
The Lord longs for us to confess our sins to Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Whatever you need to tell the Lord today, just say it-from the heart.
Lord, please give me a heart of repentance to see myself as You do. Give me the grace to respond to Your merciful call for change.
God wants to hear your heart.
Please read Isaiah 53-55 and 2 Thessalonians 1
Monday, October 17, 2016
Do We Have To?
Joie started the children's program with prayer, then sang with the kids. Six-year-old Emmanuel squirmed in his seat when she prayed again after introducing Aaron, the teacher.Then Aaron began and ended his talk with prayer. Emmanuel complained: " That's four prayers! I can't sit that long!"
If you think Emmanuel's challenge is difficult, look at 1 Thessalonians 5:17: " Pray continually" or always be in a spirit of prayer. Even some of us adults can find prayer to be boring. Maybe that's because we don't know what to say or don't understand that prayer is a conversation with Our Father.
Back in the seventeenth century, Francois Fenelon wrote some words about prayer that have helped me: " Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, its pleasures and its pains, to a dear friend. Tell Him your troubles, that He may comfort you; tell Him your joys, that He may sober them; tell Him your longings, that He may purify them." He continued, " Talk to Him of your temptations, that He may shield you from them:show Him the wounds of your heart, that He may heal them....If you thus pour out all your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say."
May we grow in our intimacy with God so that we will want to spend more time with Him.
For further study, read about Jesus's example of prayer in John 17 and Luke 5:16
Prayer is an intimate conversation with our God.
Please read Isaiah 50-52 and 1 Thessalonians 5
If you think Emmanuel's challenge is difficult, look at 1 Thessalonians 5:17: " Pray continually" or always be in a spirit of prayer. Even some of us adults can find prayer to be boring. Maybe that's because we don't know what to say or don't understand that prayer is a conversation with Our Father.
Back in the seventeenth century, Francois Fenelon wrote some words about prayer that have helped me: " Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, its pleasures and its pains, to a dear friend. Tell Him your troubles, that He may comfort you; tell Him your joys, that He may sober them; tell Him your longings, that He may purify them." He continued, " Talk to Him of your temptations, that He may shield you from them:show Him the wounds of your heart, that He may heal them....If you thus pour out all your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say."
May we grow in our intimacy with God so that we will want to spend more time with Him.
For further study, read about Jesus's example of prayer in John 17 and Luke 5:16
Prayer is an intimate conversation with our God.
Please read Isaiah 50-52 and 1 Thessalonians 5
Friday, October 14, 2016
A Fan for Life
Cade Pope, a 12-year-old boy from Oklahoma, mailed out 32 handwritten letters-one to each executive in charge of a National Football League ( NFL) team in the US> Cade wrote, " My family and I love football. We play fantasy football and watch [the] games every weekend....I am ready to pick an NFL team to cheer on for a lifetime!"
Jerry Richardson, owner of the Carolina Panthers football team, responded with a handwritten note of his own. The first line read: " We would be honored if our [team] became your team. We would make you proud." Richardson went on to commend some of his players. His letter was not only personal and kindhearted-it was the only response that Cade received. Not surprisingly, Cade became a loyal fan of the Carolina Panthers.
In Psalm 86, David spoke about his allegiance to the one true God. He said, " When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me. Among the gods there is none like you, Lord". Our devotion to God is born from His Character and His care for us. He is the one who answers our prayers, guides us by His spirit, and saves us through the death and ressurection of His Son, Jesus Christ. He deserves our lifelong loyalty.
Dear God, there is no one like You. Help me to consider Your holiness and let it lead me into deeper devotion to You.
Only God is worthy of our adoration and devotion.
Please read Isaiah 45-46 and 1 Thessalonians 3
Jerry Richardson, owner of the Carolina Panthers football team, responded with a handwritten note of his own. The first line read: " We would be honored if our [team] became your team. We would make you proud." Richardson went on to commend some of his players. His letter was not only personal and kindhearted-it was the only response that Cade received. Not surprisingly, Cade became a loyal fan of the Carolina Panthers.
In Psalm 86, David spoke about his allegiance to the one true God. He said, " When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me. Among the gods there is none like you, Lord". Our devotion to God is born from His Character and His care for us. He is the one who answers our prayers, guides us by His spirit, and saves us through the death and ressurection of His Son, Jesus Christ. He deserves our lifelong loyalty.
Dear God, there is no one like You. Help me to consider Your holiness and let it lead me into deeper devotion to You.
Only God is worthy of our adoration and devotion.
Please read Isaiah 45-46 and 1 Thessalonians 3
Dying for Others
I love birds, which is why I bought six caged birds and carried them home to our daughter Alice, who began to care for them daily. Then one of the birds fell ill and died. We wondered if the birds would be more likely to thrive if they were not caged. So we freed the surviving five and observed them fly away in jubilation.
Alice then pointed out, " Do you realize, Daddy, that it was the death of one bird that caused us to free the rest?"
Isn't that what the Lord Jesus did for us? Just as one man's sin ( Adam's) brought condemnation to the world, so one Man's righteousness ( Jesus's) brought salvation to those who believe (Romans 5:12-19). Jesus said, " I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" ( John 10:11)
John makes it more practical when he says, " Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives with Jesus's example of sacrificial love, we find that we are " laying down our lives." For instance, we might choose to deprive ourselves of material goods in order to share them with others or make time to be with someone who needs comfort and companionship.
Who do you need to sacrifice for today?
In what ways have others sacrificed for your well-being?
Christ's ultimate sacrifice for us motivates us to sacrifice ourselves for others.
Please read Isaiah 43-44 and 1 Thessalonians 2
Alice then pointed out, " Do you realize, Daddy, that it was the death of one bird that caused us to free the rest?"
Isn't that what the Lord Jesus did for us? Just as one man's sin ( Adam's) brought condemnation to the world, so one Man's righteousness ( Jesus's) brought salvation to those who believe (Romans 5:12-19). Jesus said, " I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" ( John 10:11)
John makes it more practical when he says, " Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives with Jesus's example of sacrificial love, we find that we are " laying down our lives." For instance, we might choose to deprive ourselves of material goods in order to share them with others or make time to be with someone who needs comfort and companionship.
Who do you need to sacrifice for today?
In what ways have others sacrificed for your well-being?
Christ's ultimate sacrifice for us motivates us to sacrifice ourselves for others.
Please read Isaiah 43-44 and 1 Thessalonians 2
Thursday, October 13, 2016
All Welcome!
The much-prayed-for film night at the church youth club had finally arrived.Posters had been displayed all around the village and pizzas were warming in the oven. Steve, the youth pastor, hoped that the film-about gang members in New York who were brought face-to-face with the claims of Jesus by a young pastor-would bring new recruits to the club.
But he hadn't realized that a key football match was being shown on television that even, so attendance was much smaller than he had hoped for. Sighing inwardly, he was about to dim the lights and begin the film when five leather-clad members of the local motorbike club came in. Steve went pale.
The leader of the group, who was known as TDog, nodded in Steve's direction. " It's free and for everyone, right?" he said. Steve opened his mouth to say, " Youth club members only" when TDog bent down and picked up a bracelet with the letters WWJD ( What Would Jesus Do) stamped on it. " This yours, mate?" he asked. Steve nodded, hot with embarrassment, and waited while the new guests found a seat.
Have you ever been in Steve's situation? You long to share the good news about Jesus, but you have a mental list of the "right" people who would be acceptable? Jesus was often criticized by the religious authorities for the company He kept. But He welcomed those everyone else avoided, because He knew they needed Him most ( Luke 5:31-32).
Lord, please help me to see people through Your eyes of love and to welcome all those You bring into my life.
A heart is open to Christ will be open to those He loves.
Please read Isaiah 41-42 and 1 Thessalonians 1
But he hadn't realized that a key football match was being shown on television that even, so attendance was much smaller than he had hoped for. Sighing inwardly, he was about to dim the lights and begin the film when five leather-clad members of the local motorbike club came in. Steve went pale.
The leader of the group, who was known as TDog, nodded in Steve's direction. " It's free and for everyone, right?" he said. Steve opened his mouth to say, " Youth club members only" when TDog bent down and picked up a bracelet with the letters WWJD ( What Would Jesus Do) stamped on it. " This yours, mate?" he asked. Steve nodded, hot with embarrassment, and waited while the new guests found a seat.
Have you ever been in Steve's situation? You long to share the good news about Jesus, but you have a mental list of the "right" people who would be acceptable? Jesus was often criticized by the religious authorities for the company He kept. But He welcomed those everyone else avoided, because He knew they needed Him most ( Luke 5:31-32).
Lord, please help me to see people through Your eyes of love and to welcome all those You bring into my life.
A heart is open to Christ will be open to those He loves.
Please read Isaiah 41-42 and 1 Thessalonians 1
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Changing Hearts
On the last day of the US Civil War, officer Joshua Chamberlain was in command of the Union army. His soldiers lined up on both sides of the road that the Confederate army had to march down in surrender. One wrong word or one belligerent act and the longed-for peace could be turned to slaughter. In an act as brilliant as it was moving. Chamberlain ordered his troops to salute their foe! No taunting here, no vicious words-only guns in salute and swords raised to honor.
When Jesus offered His words about forgiveness in Luke 6, He was helping us understand the difference between people of grace and people without grace. Those who know His forgiveness are to be strikingly unlike everyone else. We must do what others think impossible: Forgive and love your enemies. Jesus said, " Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
Imagine the impact in our workplaces and on our families if we were to embrace this principle. If a salute can make armies whole again, what power there must be in Christ's grace reflected through us! Scripture gives evidence of this in Esau's embrace of his deceitful brother ( Genesis 33:4), in Zacchaeus's joyful penance ( Luke 19:1-10), and in the picture of a father racing to greet his prodigal son ( Luke 15).
With the grace of Christ, may we let this be the final day of bitterness and dispute between our enemies and us.
Lord, we know how gentle power of forgiveness can bring healing in relationships. Grant us the courage to end our conflicts by Your grace.
Anger almost always vanishes in the face of grace.
Please read Isaiah 37-38 and Colossians 3
When Jesus offered His words about forgiveness in Luke 6, He was helping us understand the difference between people of grace and people without grace. Those who know His forgiveness are to be strikingly unlike everyone else. We must do what others think impossible: Forgive and love your enemies. Jesus said, " Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
Imagine the impact in our workplaces and on our families if we were to embrace this principle. If a salute can make armies whole again, what power there must be in Christ's grace reflected through us! Scripture gives evidence of this in Esau's embrace of his deceitful brother ( Genesis 33:4), in Zacchaeus's joyful penance ( Luke 19:1-10), and in the picture of a father racing to greet his prodigal son ( Luke 15).
With the grace of Christ, may we let this be the final day of bitterness and dispute between our enemies and us.
Lord, we know how gentle power of forgiveness can bring healing in relationships. Grant us the courage to end our conflicts by Your grace.
Anger almost always vanishes in the face of grace.
Please read Isaiah 37-38 and Colossians 3
Monday, October 10, 2016
Doing the Opposite
A wilderness excursion can seem daunting, but for outdoor enthusiasts this only adds to the appeal. Because hikers need more water than they can carry, they purchase bottles with built-in filters so they can use water sources along the way. But the process of drinking from such a container is counterintuitive. Tipping the bottle does nothing. A thirsty hiker has to blow into it to force the water through the filter. Reality is contrary to what seems natural.
As we follow Jesus, we find much that is counterintuitive. Paul pointed out one example: Keeping rules won't draw us closer to God. He asked, " Why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: ' Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!'? These rules.... are based on merely human commands and teachings" ( Colossians 2:20-22)
So what are we to do? Paul gave the answer. " Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above". " You died," he told people who were still very much alive, " and your life is now hidden with Christ in God".
We are to consider ourselves " dead" to the values of this world and alive to Christ. We now aspire to a way of life demonstrated by the One who said, " Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant" ( Matthew 20:26)
Consider what these counterintuitive principles from the Bible might mean for you: " Whoeer loses their life for me will find it" ( Matthew 16:25).
" The last will be first, and the irst will be last" ( Matthew 20:16)
" When I am weak, then I am strong" ( 2 Corinthians 12:10)
God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. ( 1 Corinthians 1:27)
Please read Isaiah 34-36 and Colossians 2
As we follow Jesus, we find much that is counterintuitive. Paul pointed out one example: Keeping rules won't draw us closer to God. He asked, " Why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: ' Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!'? These rules.... are based on merely human commands and teachings" ( Colossians 2:20-22)
So what are we to do? Paul gave the answer. " Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above". " You died," he told people who were still very much alive, " and your life is now hidden with Christ in God".
We are to consider ourselves " dead" to the values of this world and alive to Christ. We now aspire to a way of life demonstrated by the One who said, " Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant" ( Matthew 20:26)
Consider what these counterintuitive principles from the Bible might mean for you: " Whoeer loses their life for me will find it" ( Matthew 16:25).
" The last will be first, and the irst will be last" ( Matthew 20:16)
" When I am weak, then I am strong" ( 2 Corinthians 12:10)
God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. ( 1 Corinthians 1:27)
Please read Isaiah 34-36 and Colossians 2
Sunday, October 9, 2016
United in Christ
When we come across a list of names in the Bible, we might be tempted to skip over it. But we can find treasures there, such as in the list of the twelves apostles whom Jesus called to serve in His name. Many are familiar- Simon whom Jesus called Peter, the rock Brothers James and John, fishermen. Judas Iscariot, the betrayer. But we could easily overlook that Matthew the tax collector and Simon the Zealot must once have been enemies.
Matthew collected taxes for Rome, and therefore, in the eyes of his fellow Jews, collaborated with the enemy. Tax collectors were despised for their corrupt practices and for requiring the Jewish people to give money to an authority other than God. On the other hand, before Jesus's call, Simon the Zealot was devoted to a group of Jewish nationalists who hated Rome and sought to overturn it, often through aggressive and violent means.
Although Matthew and Simon held opposing political beliefs, the gospels don't document them bickering or fighting about them. They must have had at least some success in leaving their previous allegiances behind as they followed Christ.
When we too fix our eyes on Jesus, the God who became Man, we can find increasing unity with our fellow believers through the bond of the Holy Spirit.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, You exist in perfect harmony. May Your Spirit dwell in us that the world might see You, and believe.
Our strongest allegiance is to Christ, who gives us unity with each other.
Please read Isaiah 32-33 and Colossians 1
Matthew collected taxes for Rome, and therefore, in the eyes of his fellow Jews, collaborated with the enemy. Tax collectors were despised for their corrupt practices and for requiring the Jewish people to give money to an authority other than God. On the other hand, before Jesus's call, Simon the Zealot was devoted to a group of Jewish nationalists who hated Rome and sought to overturn it, often through aggressive and violent means.
Although Matthew and Simon held opposing political beliefs, the gospels don't document them bickering or fighting about them. They must have had at least some success in leaving their previous allegiances behind as they followed Christ.
When we too fix our eyes on Jesus, the God who became Man, we can find increasing unity with our fellow believers through the bond of the Holy Spirit.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, You exist in perfect harmony. May Your Spirit dwell in us that the world might see You, and believe.
Our strongest allegiance is to Christ, who gives us unity with each other.
Please read Isaiah 32-33 and Colossians 1
The Drinkable Book
Because it is so difficult in parts of the world to find clean drinking water, an organization called Water is Life developed a wonderful resource called " The Drinkable Book." The paper in the book is coated in silver nanoparticles that filter out almost 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria! Each tear-out page can be used and reused to filter up to 100 liters of water at the cost of only four pennies per page.
The Bible is also an unusually " drinkable" Book. In John 4, we read of a particular kind of thirst and a special kind of water. The woman at the well needed much more than to quench her physical thirst with clean, clear liquid. She was desperate to know the source of living water." She needed the grace and forgiveness that comes from God alone.
God's Word is the ultimate " drinkable" Book that points to God's Son as the sole source of " living water." And those who accept the water that Jesus gives will experience " a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
Father, we yearn for the satisfaction that only You can give. Help us discard the things that leave us empty and thirsting, and exchange them for the satisfaction of the living water You offer.
Jesus is the sole source of living water.
Please read Isaiah 30-31 and Philippians 4
The Bible is also an unusually " drinkable" Book. In John 4, we read of a particular kind of thirst and a special kind of water. The woman at the well needed much more than to quench her physical thirst with clean, clear liquid. She was desperate to know the source of living water." She needed the grace and forgiveness that comes from God alone.
God's Word is the ultimate " drinkable" Book that points to God's Son as the sole source of " living water." And those who accept the water that Jesus gives will experience " a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
Father, we yearn for the satisfaction that only You can give. Help us discard the things that leave us empty and thirsting, and exchange them for the satisfaction of the living water You offer.
Jesus is the sole source of living water.
Please read Isaiah 30-31 and Philippians 4
Friday, October 7, 2016
Graping The Cross
In 1856, Charles Spurgeon, the great London preacher, founded the Pastor's College to train men for the Christian ministry. It was renamed Spurgeon's College in 1923. Today's college crest shows a hand grasping a cross and the Latin words, Et Teneo, Et Teneor, which means, " I hold and am held."
In his autobiography, Spurgeon wrote, " This is our college motto. We...hold forth the cross of Christ with a bold hand...because that Cross holds us fast by its attractive power. Our desire is that every man may both hold the Truth, and be held by it; especially the truth of Christ crucified."
In Paul's letter to the Philippians, he expressed this truth as the bedrock of his life. " Not that I have....already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" ( Philippians 3:12) As followers of Jesus, we extend the message of the cross to others as Jesus holds us fast in His grace and power. " I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." ( Galatians 2:20)
Our Lord holds us in His grip of love each day-and we hold out His message of love to others.
Lord Jesus, Your cross is the focal point of history and the turning point of our lives. Hold us tightly as we cling to Your cross and extend Your love to others.
We hold to the cross of Christ and are held by it.
Please read Isaiah 28-29 and Philippians 3
In his autobiography, Spurgeon wrote, " This is our college motto. We...hold forth the cross of Christ with a bold hand...because that Cross holds us fast by its attractive power. Our desire is that every man may both hold the Truth, and be held by it; especially the truth of Christ crucified."
In Paul's letter to the Philippians, he expressed this truth as the bedrock of his life. " Not that I have....already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" ( Philippians 3:12) As followers of Jesus, we extend the message of the cross to others as Jesus holds us fast in His grace and power. " I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." ( Galatians 2:20)
Our Lord holds us in His grip of love each day-and we hold out His message of love to others.
Lord Jesus, Your cross is the focal point of history and the turning point of our lives. Hold us tightly as we cling to Your cross and extend Your love to others.
We hold to the cross of Christ and are held by it.
Please read Isaiah 28-29 and Philippians 3
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Praising and Asking
Teen challenge, a ministry to at-risk youth that started in New York City, was born from an unusual commitment to prayer. Its founder, David Wilkerson, sold his television set spent his TV-watching time (two hours each night) praying. In the months that followed, he not only gained clarity about his new endeavor but he also learned about the balance between praising God and asking Him for help.
King Solomon's temple dedication prayer shows this balance. Solomon began by highlighting God's holiness and faithfulness. Then he gave God credit for the success of the project and emphasized God's greatness, declaring, " The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! ( 2 Chronicles 6:18)
After exalting God, Solomon asked Him to pay special attention to everything that happened inside the temple. He asked God to show mercy to the Israelites and to provide for them when they confessed their sin.
Immediately after Solomon's prayer, " fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple". This incredible response reminds us that the mighty One we praise and speak to when we pray is the same One who listens to and cares about our requests.
How would you describe your conversations with God? What might help you grow closer to Him as you pray?
Prayer helps us see things as God sees them.
King Solomon's temple dedication prayer shows this balance. Solomon began by highlighting God's holiness and faithfulness. Then he gave God credit for the success of the project and emphasized God's greatness, declaring, " The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! ( 2 Chronicles 6:18)
After exalting God, Solomon asked Him to pay special attention to everything that happened inside the temple. He asked God to show mercy to the Israelites and to provide for them when they confessed their sin.
Immediately after Solomon's prayer, " fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple". This incredible response reminds us that the mighty One we praise and speak to when we pray is the same One who listens to and cares about our requests.
How would you describe your conversations with God? What might help you grow closer to Him as you pray?
Prayer helps us see things as God sees them.
Good Medicine
Careless driving, rising tempers, and use of foul language among some taxi and minibus drivers are a constant source of traffic fights in our city of Accra, Ghana. But one traffic incident I witnessed took a different turn. A bus was almost by a careless taxi driver. I expected the bus driver to get angry and yell at the other driver, but he didn't. Instead, the bus driver relaxed his stern face and smiled broadly at the guilty looking taxi driver. And the smile worked wonders. With a raised hand, the taxi driver apologized, smiled back, and moved away-the tension diffused.
A smile has a fascinating effect on our brain chemistry. Researchers have found that when we smile it releases brain chemicals called endorphins which have an actual physiological relaxing effect." Not only can a smile diffuse a tense situation, but it can also diffuse tension within us. Our emotions affect us as well as others. The bible teaches us to " get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another" ( ephesians 4:31-32)
When anger or tension or bitterness threatens our relationship with the Lord and with others, it helps to remember that a " cheerful heart is good medicine" for our own joy and that well-being.
Think about a time when you were angry with someone or when you had an argument. How did you feel inside What parts of your life did it affect?
We find joy when we learn to live in Jesus's love.
A smile has a fascinating effect on our brain chemistry. Researchers have found that when we smile it releases brain chemicals called endorphins which have an actual physiological relaxing effect." Not only can a smile diffuse a tense situation, but it can also diffuse tension within us. Our emotions affect us as well as others. The bible teaches us to " get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another" ( ephesians 4:31-32)
When anger or tension or bitterness threatens our relationship with the Lord and with others, it helps to remember that a " cheerful heart is good medicine" for our own joy and that well-being.
Think about a time when you were angry with someone or when you had an argument. How did you feel inside What parts of your life did it affect?
We find joy when we learn to live in Jesus's love.
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Setting Prisoners Free
When my wife and I visited the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force near Savannah, Georgia, we were especially moved by the prisoner-of-war exhibit, with its re-creation of a German prisoner-of-war camp's barracks.
Marlene's dad, Jim, served in the Eighth Air Force, the " Mighty Eighth, " as they flew missions over Europe during World War 2. During the war, the Eighth Air Force suffered over 47,000 injuries and more than 26,000 deaths. Jim was one of those shot down and held as prisoner of war. As we walked through the exhibit, we recalled Jim telling about the absolute joy he and his fellow prisoners felt the day they were set free.
God's care for the oppressed and liberation of the imprisoned are declared in Psalm 146. The psalmist describes the one who " upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry, " who " sets prisoners free." All of this is cause for celebration and praise. But the greatest freedom of all is freedom from our guilt and shame. No wonder Jesus said, " So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." ( JOHN 8:36)
Through Christ's sacrifice, we are set free from the prison of sin to know His joy and love and the freedom that only forgiveness can bring.
The prison of sin cannot withstand the power of Christ's forgiveness.
Please read Isaiah 20-22 and Ephesians 6
Marlene's dad, Jim, served in the Eighth Air Force, the " Mighty Eighth, " as they flew missions over Europe during World War 2. During the war, the Eighth Air Force suffered over 47,000 injuries and more than 26,000 deaths. Jim was one of those shot down and held as prisoner of war. As we walked through the exhibit, we recalled Jim telling about the absolute joy he and his fellow prisoners felt the day they were set free.
God's care for the oppressed and liberation of the imprisoned are declared in Psalm 146. The psalmist describes the one who " upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry, " who " sets prisoners free." All of this is cause for celebration and praise. But the greatest freedom of all is freedom from our guilt and shame. No wonder Jesus said, " So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." ( JOHN 8:36)
Through Christ's sacrifice, we are set free from the prison of sin to know His joy and love and the freedom that only forgiveness can bring.
The prison of sin cannot withstand the power of Christ's forgiveness.
Please read Isaiah 20-22 and Ephesians 6
Monday, October 3, 2016
No Outsiders
In the remote region of Ghana where I lived as a boy, " Chop time, no friend" was a common proverb. Locals considered it impolite to visit at " chop time" ( mealtime) because food was often scarce. The maxim applied to neighbors and outsiders alike.
But in the Philippines, where I also lied for a time, even if you visit unannounced at mealtime, your hosts will insist on sharing with you regardless of whether they have enough for themselves. Cultures differ for their own good reasons.
As the Israelites left Egypt, God provided specific instructions to govern their culture. But rules-even God's rules-can never change hearts. So Moses said, " Change your hearts and stop being stubborn" ( DEUT. 10:16). Interestingly, right after issuing that challenge Moses took up the topic of Israel's treatment of outsiders. God " loves the foreigner residing among you," he said, " giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt".
Israel served the " God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome". One powerful way they were to show their identification with God was by loving foreigners-those from outside their culture.
What might this small picture of God's character mean for us today? How can we show His love to the marginalized and the needy in our world?
Heavenly Father, help us bless others today by showing Your love in some small way.
In Christ there are no outsiders.
Please read Isaiah 17-19 and Ephesians 5:17-33
But in the Philippines, where I also lied for a time, even if you visit unannounced at mealtime, your hosts will insist on sharing with you regardless of whether they have enough for themselves. Cultures differ for their own good reasons.
As the Israelites left Egypt, God provided specific instructions to govern their culture. But rules-even God's rules-can never change hearts. So Moses said, " Change your hearts and stop being stubborn" ( DEUT. 10:16). Interestingly, right after issuing that challenge Moses took up the topic of Israel's treatment of outsiders. God " loves the foreigner residing among you," he said, " giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt".
Israel served the " God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome". One powerful way they were to show their identification with God was by loving foreigners-those from outside their culture.
What might this small picture of God's character mean for us today? How can we show His love to the marginalized and the needy in our world?
Heavenly Father, help us bless others today by showing Your love in some small way.
In Christ there are no outsiders.
Please read Isaiah 17-19 and Ephesians 5:17-33
Friday, September 30, 2016
Bad Faith, Good Faith
" You gotta have faith," people say. But what does that mean? Is any faith good faith?
" Believe in yourself an all that you are," wrote one positive thinker a century ago. " Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle." As nice as that may sound, it falls to pieces when it crashes into reality. We need a faith in something bigger than ourselves.
God promised Abram he would have a multitude of descendants, so he faced a huge obstacle-he was old and childless. When he and Sarah got tired of waiting for God to make good on His promise, they tried to overcome that obstacle on their own. As a result, they fractured their family and created a lot of unnecessary dissension.
Nothing Abraham did in his own strength worked. But ultimately he became known as a man of tremendous faith. Paul wrote of him, " Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, ' So shall your offspring be.' " This faith, said Paul, " was credited to him as righteousness."
Abraham's faith was in something far bigger than himself-the one and only God. It's the object of our faith that makes all the difference.
Lord, I want a strong faith in You, not just faith in myself or my abilities or in others. I am nothing without you.
Our faith is good if it's in the right Person.
Please read Isaiah 9-10 and Ephesians 3
" Believe in yourself an all that you are," wrote one positive thinker a century ago. " Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle." As nice as that may sound, it falls to pieces when it crashes into reality. We need a faith in something bigger than ourselves.
God promised Abram he would have a multitude of descendants, so he faced a huge obstacle-he was old and childless. When he and Sarah got tired of waiting for God to make good on His promise, they tried to overcome that obstacle on their own. As a result, they fractured their family and created a lot of unnecessary dissension.
Nothing Abraham did in his own strength worked. But ultimately he became known as a man of tremendous faith. Paul wrote of him, " Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, ' So shall your offspring be.' " This faith, said Paul, " was credited to him as righteousness."
Abraham's faith was in something far bigger than himself-the one and only God. It's the object of our faith that makes all the difference.
Lord, I want a strong faith in You, not just faith in myself or my abilities or in others. I am nothing without you.
Our faith is good if it's in the right Person.
Please read Isaiah 9-10 and Ephesians 3
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Within a Stone's Throw
As a group of religious leaders herded an adulterous woman toward Jesus, they couldn't know they were carrying her within a stone's throw of grace. Their hope was to discredit Him. If He told them to let the woman go, they could claim He was breaking Mosaic law. But if He condemned her to death, the crowds following Him would have dismissed His words of mercy and grace.
But Jesus turned the tables on the accusers. Scripture says that rather than answering them directly, He started writing on the ground. When the leaders continued to question Him, He invited any of them who had never sinned to throw the first stone, and then He started writing on the ground again. The next time He looked up, all the accusers were gone.
Now the only person who could have thrown a stone-the only sinless one-looked at the woman and gave her mercy. " Then neither do I condemn you,' Jesus declared. ' Go now and leave your life of sin.' "
Whether today finds you needing forgiveness for judging others or desiring assurance that no sin is beyond His grace, be encouraged be this: No one throwing stones today; go and be changed by God's mercy.
Father, cleanse me of my judging nature and free me from the bonds of sin. Let me taste Your mercy and then help me to live a changed life.
We serve a Savior who is eager to forgive.
Please read Isaiah 7-8 and Ephesians 2
But Jesus turned the tables on the accusers. Scripture says that rather than answering them directly, He started writing on the ground. When the leaders continued to question Him, He invited any of them who had never sinned to throw the first stone, and then He started writing on the ground again. The next time He looked up, all the accusers were gone.
Now the only person who could have thrown a stone-the only sinless one-looked at the woman and gave her mercy. " Then neither do I condemn you,' Jesus declared. ' Go now and leave your life of sin.' "
Whether today finds you needing forgiveness for judging others or desiring assurance that no sin is beyond His grace, be encouraged be this: No one throwing stones today; go and be changed by God's mercy.
Father, cleanse me of my judging nature and free me from the bonds of sin. Let me taste Your mercy and then help me to live a changed life.
We serve a Savior who is eager to forgive.
Please read Isaiah 7-8 and Ephesians 2
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Praying For You Today
When we face a perplexing situation or a tough problem, we often ask our brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for us. It's a great encouragement to know that others who care are holding us up to God in prayer. But what if you don't have close Christian friends? Perhaps you live where the gospel of Christ is opposed. Who will pray for you?
Romans 8, one of the great, triumphant chapters of the Bible, declares, " we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans... The Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God". The Holy Spirit is praying for you today.
In addition, " Christ Jesus who died more than that, who was raised to life-is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us". The living Lord Jesus Christ is praying for you today.
Think of it! The Holy Spirit and the Lord Jesus Christ mention your name and your needs to God the Father, who hears and acts on your behalf.
No matter where you are or how confusing your situation, you do not face life alone. The spirit and the Son are praying for you today!
Dear God, I bow in humble thanks for the prayers spoken by the Holy Spirit and by Your Son today-for me. What an amazing truth!
The Holy Spirit and Jesus are always praying for you.
Romans 8, one of the great, triumphant chapters of the Bible, declares, " we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans... The Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God". The Holy Spirit is praying for you today.
In addition, " Christ Jesus who died more than that, who was raised to life-is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us". The living Lord Jesus Christ is praying for you today.
Think of it! The Holy Spirit and the Lord Jesus Christ mention your name and your needs to God the Father, who hears and acts on your behalf.
No matter where you are or how confusing your situation, you do not face life alone. The spirit and the Son are praying for you today!
Dear God, I bow in humble thanks for the prayers spoken by the Holy Spirit and by Your Son today-for me. What an amazing truth!
The Holy Spirit and Jesus are always praying for you.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
True Riches
At the memorial service for my friend's dad, someone said to her, " Until I met your father, I didn't know a person could have fun while helping others." Her dad contributed his part in helping to build the kingdom of God through serving people, laughing and loving, and meeting strangers who became friends. When he died, he left a legacy of love. In contrast, my friend's aunt--her father's older sister--viewed her possessions as her legacy, spending her latter years worrying about who would protect her heirlooms and rare books.
In His teaching and by His example, Jesus warned His followers to avoid hoarding possessions, to give to the poor, and to value what will not rust or decay. " For where your treasure is," Jesus said, " there your heart will be also."
We might think our things give meaning to our life. But when the latest gadget breaks or we misplace or lose something valuable, we begin to realize that it is our relationship with the Lord that satisfies and endures. It is our love and care for others that does not wither and fade away.
Let's ask the Lord to help us see clearly what we value, to show us where our heart is, and to help us seek His kingdom above all.
What do you value? Read the story about the manna in the wilderness in Exodus 16. Consider how this story relates to Jesus'swords to the crowds in Luke 12.
What we value reveals the state of our heart.
Please read Isaiah 3-4 and Galatians 6
In His teaching and by His example, Jesus warned His followers to avoid hoarding possessions, to give to the poor, and to value what will not rust or decay. " For where your treasure is," Jesus said, " there your heart will be also."
We might think our things give meaning to our life. But when the latest gadget breaks or we misplace or lose something valuable, we begin to realize that it is our relationship with the Lord that satisfies and endures. It is our love and care for others that does not wither and fade away.
Let's ask the Lord to help us see clearly what we value, to show us where our heart is, and to help us seek His kingdom above all.
What do you value? Read the story about the manna in the wilderness in Exodus 16. Consider how this story relates to Jesus'swords to the crowds in Luke 12.
What we value reveals the state of our heart.
Please read Isaiah 3-4 and Galatians 6
Monday, September 26, 2016
Calming Your Soul
While attending a concert, my mind detoured to a troublesome issue that insisted on my attention. Thankfully, the distraction was short-lived as the words of a beautiful hymn began to reach deep into my being. A men's a capella group was singing " Be still, My Soul". Tears welled up as I listened to the words and contemplated the restful peace that only God can give:
Be still, My Soul: the Lord is on thy side! Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain; leave to thy God to order and provide; in every change He faithful will remain.
When Jesus was denouncing the unrepentant towns where He had done most of His miracles, He still had words of comfort for those who would come to Him. He said, " Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened.... learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls".
This statement is striking! Immediately following His strong words for those who were rejecting Him, Jesus extended an invitation to all to draw near to Him to find the peace we all yearn for. Jesus is the only one who can calm our restless, weary souls.
I come to You now, Lord, in need of rest for my heart. Help me to trust You and be confident in Your love.
When we keep our minds on Jesus, He keeps our minds at peace.
Be still, My Soul: the Lord is on thy side! Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain; leave to thy God to order and provide; in every change He faithful will remain.
When Jesus was denouncing the unrepentant towns where He had done most of His miracles, He still had words of comfort for those who would come to Him. He said, " Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened.... learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls".
This statement is striking! Immediately following His strong words for those who were rejecting Him, Jesus extended an invitation to all to draw near to Him to find the peace we all yearn for. Jesus is the only one who can calm our restless, weary souls.
I come to You now, Lord, in need of rest for my heart. Help me to trust You and be confident in Your love.
When we keep our minds on Jesus, He keeps our minds at peace.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Pass It On
I enjoy relay races. The physical strength, speed, skill, and endurance required of the athletes amaze me. But one crucial point of the race always gets my special attention and makes me anxious. One moment the baton is passed to the next athlete. One moment of delay, one slip, and the race could be lost.
In a sense, Christians are in a relay race, carrying the baton of faith and the knowledge of the Lord and His word. And the Bible tells us about our need to pass this baton from one generation to another. In Psalm 78, Asaph declares: " I will utter...things from of old-things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us...We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done".
Moses said something similar to the Israelites: " Do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them".
For generations to come, we are called to lovingly and courageously do whatever we can to pass along " the praises of him who called us of darkness into his wonderful light".
Father, help me to be faithful in passing my faith along to someone else.
We influence future generations by living for Christ today.
In a sense, Christians are in a relay race, carrying the baton of faith and the knowledge of the Lord and His word. And the Bible tells us about our need to pass this baton from one generation to another. In Psalm 78, Asaph declares: " I will utter...things from of old-things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us...We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done".
Moses said something similar to the Israelites: " Do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them".
For generations to come, we are called to lovingly and courageously do whatever we can to pass along " the praises of him who called us of darkness into his wonderful light".
Father, help me to be faithful in passing my faith along to someone else.
We influence future generations by living for Christ today.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Words for the Weary
A few days after his father died, 30 year old C.S Lewis received a letter from a woman who had cared for his mother during her illness and death more than two decades earlier. The woman offered her sympathy for his loss and wondered if he remembered her. " My dear nurse Davison, " Lewis replied. " Remember you? I should think I do."
Lewis recalled how much her presence in their home had meant to him as well as his brother and father during a difficult time. He thanked her for her words of sympathy and said, " It is really comforting to be taken back to those old days. The time during which you were with my mother seemed very long to a child and you became part of home."
When we struggle in the circumstances of life, an encouraging word from others can lift our spirits and our eyes to the Lord. The old testament prophet Isaiah wrote, " The sovereign Lord has given me a well instructed tounge, to know the word that sustains the weary". And when we look to the Lord, He offers words of hope and light in the darkness.
Heavenly Father, help me to hear Your word of hope today. And help me to speak words of hope and encouragement to others, pointing them to You.
Kind words can lift a heavy heart.
Lewis recalled how much her presence in their home had meant to him as well as his brother and father during a difficult time. He thanked her for her words of sympathy and said, " It is really comforting to be taken back to those old days. The time during which you were with my mother seemed very long to a child and you became part of home."
When we struggle in the circumstances of life, an encouraging word from others can lift our spirits and our eyes to the Lord. The old testament prophet Isaiah wrote, " The sovereign Lord has given me a well instructed tounge, to know the word that sustains the weary". And when we look to the Lord, He offers words of hope and light in the darkness.
Heavenly Father, help me to hear Your word of hope today. And help me to speak words of hope and encouragement to others, pointing them to You.
Kind words can lift a heavy heart.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
The Gates of Worship
When you enter some of the greatest cities in the world, you can encounter famous gates such as the Brandenburg Gate ( Berlin), the Jaffa Gate ( Jerusalem), and the gates at Downing Street ( London). Whether the gates were built for defensive or ceremonial purposes, they all represent the difference between being outside or inside certain areas of the city. Some are open; some are closed to all but few.
The gates into the presence of God are always open. The familiar song of Psalm 100 is an invitation for the Israelites to enter into the presence of God through the temple gates. They were told to " shout for joy" and come before him with joyful songs".
Shouting for joy was an appropriate expression when greeting a monarch in the ancient world. All the earth was to sing joyfully about God! The reason for this joyful noise was that God had given them their identity. They entered the gates with praise and thanksgiving because of God's goodness and His steadfast and enduring love which continues through all generations. Even when they forgot their identity and wandered away from Him, God remained faithful and still invited them to enter His presence.
The gates into God's presence are still open, inviting us to come and worship.
What should motivate us to worship God?
What statement of praise could you give to God today?
The gates into the presence of God are always open.
The gates into the presence of God are always open. The familiar song of Psalm 100 is an invitation for the Israelites to enter into the presence of God through the temple gates. They were told to " shout for joy" and come before him with joyful songs".
Shouting for joy was an appropriate expression when greeting a monarch in the ancient world. All the earth was to sing joyfully about God! The reason for this joyful noise was that God had given them their identity. They entered the gates with praise and thanksgiving because of God's goodness and His steadfast and enduring love which continues through all generations. Even when they forgot their identity and wandered away from Him, God remained faithful and still invited them to enter His presence.
The gates into God's presence are still open, inviting us to come and worship.
What should motivate us to worship God?
What statement of praise could you give to God today?
The gates into the presence of God are always open.
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